The Law People

Collaborative Family Law Brisbane Keep Things Civil, Calm and in Your Control

You don’t want a courtroom battle. You want a respectful outcome that protects your co-parenting relationship, your privacy and your peace of mind. 

You Want an Outcome Without a Fight - and You’re Not Alone

Most people who contact us about collaborative family law aren’t angry. They’re anxious to move forward – respectfully, fairly, and quickly.

They want:

Collaborative law creates a structured space to negotiate legal, financial and parenting matters with professionals – not pressure.

Here’s What Happens When You Contact Your Collaborative Practice Lawyers...

Step 1

Talk With an Experienced Lawyer

Quick response – no delays and you will speak with a expert, understanding lawyer who cares

Step 2

Get Clear Answers About Your Rights

We’ll explain what’s possible and how the law applies to your specific case - in simple, plain English.

Step 3

Feel Clear and Confident Moving Forward

Whether you engage us or not, you’ll leave the call with certainty and direction.

Collaborative Law Brings Everyone to the Same Table, Literally

In collaborative law, you and your former partner each work with your own specially trained collaborative lawyer. Together, with any needed financial or parenting professionals, you agree to work things out respectfully – outside of court.

You all sign an agreement not to go to court, and commit to transparency and cooperation.

The result? A faster, more affordable, more empowering path to finalising separation, parenting plans or property settlements.

Trusted & Recognised Memberships, Associations and Affiliations

What Clients Say After Working With Us

Jill from the Law People

Led by an Accredited Family Law Specialist

When everything feels uncertain, it helps to know you’re being guided by a team led by one of Queensland’s most qualified family lawyers.

Less than 3% of solicitors in Queensland hold the title of Accredited Specialist in Family Law. It’s not a marketing term – it’s formal recognition from the Queensland Law Society that Jill Johnstone, Principal of The Law People, is among the top-tier experts in the state.

For you, that means:

In complex or high-stakes matters – especially involving children, property, or financial disputes – that level of expertise can make a real difference in your outcomes.

What truly sets this team apart is that legal skill never comes at the expense of personable service. You’ll feel it from the first conversation – real understanding, practical advice, and guidance that puts your best interests at the centre.

So if you’ve been searching for family law advice you can truly trust – you’ve just found it.

Win-Win Outcomes. No Courtroom Drama

Most law firms approach separation like a battleground. But when your focus is on peace, privacy and fairness – you need a team that sees the whole picture.

Our team:

  • Starts with your end goal in mind
  • Supports open, compassionate conversations
  • To keep things private
  • Brings in specialists (accountants, coaches, brokers) if needed – only when needed

You’re never pushed to escalate. You’re empowered to resolve.

Common Questions About Collaborative Family Law

If you want to avoid the stress and expense of going to court, collaborative practice may be the right path. It’s a respectful, solution-focused process where you and your former partner work with specially trained lawyers (and sometimes other professionals) to reach agreements that truly suit your family.

What is Collaborative Practice?

Collaborative practice is a way of resolving family law matters without going to court. Instead, both parties and their lawyers agree to work together in a series of structured meetings to reach a fair and practical outcome. The focus is on problem-solving, not fighting.

Mediation usually involves a neutral mediator helping guide discussions, but the mediator cannot give legal advice. In collaborative practice, each person has their own specially trained collaborative lawyer who provides advice and guidance throughout the process, while still working towards a shared resolution.

Yes. Collaborative practice only works if both parties are represented by collaboratively trained lawyers. This ensures you understand your legal rights and obligations, while also keeping the discussions constructive and focused on solutions.

A Better Divorce is Possible. Let’s Begin With Respect

Whether you’re at the beginning or ready to take the next step, collaborative law may be the most dignified, efficient path forward.

Your Questions About Child Support – Answered

What happens if we can’t reach an agreement?

If the collaborative process breaks down, your collaborative lawyers must withdraw, and you’ll need to engage different lawyers to represent you in court. This rule is part of what motivates everyone to stay committed to finding a resolution during collaboration.

Most family law issues can be dealt with collaboratively, including property settlements, parenting arrangements, spousal maintenance, and child support. It’s especially helpful for families who want to preserve respectful communication and focus on the best interests of children.

Often, yes. While there are still legal fees, the process is generally faster, less adversarial, and more focused, which usually means lower costs overall compared to drawn-out court proceedings.

Collaborative practice can also bring in neutral professionals, such as financial advisers, accountants, or child specialists, if needed. These experts help ensure agreements are well-informed and practical for the whole family.

  • It reduces conflict and promotes respectful communication.
  • It keeps decision-making in your hands, not a judge’s.
  • It’s private and confidential.
  • It supports healthier long-term co-parenting relationships.
  • It focuses on solutions that work for the whole family.