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.
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.
Quick response – no delays and you will speak with a expert, understanding lawyer who cares
We’ll explain what’s possible and how the law applies to your specific case - in simple, plain English.
Whether you engage us or not, you’ll leave the call with certainty and direction.
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.
Fiona Maxwell2025-07-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very happy with the service, advice I received from Skye, Felicity and team. Very professional, and listened to my needs to provide good advice. Highly recommend Cavell Cooper2024-06-12Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jill and the team are professional, responsive and very knowledgeable. I have no reservations in recommending the law people Tamara McCombe2024-05-24Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jill Johnstone and The Law People team always provide exceptional service from start to finish which is why Rouse Lawyers confidently refers its clients who need expert and experienced family law solicitors to them. The Law People know how to guide clients through every step, making potentially stressful situations more manageable. Clients benefit from The Law People’s incredible knowledge and genuine care for client well-being. Matthew Paul2024-05-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jill and the team are fantastic. I highly recommend them for any family law matters. Karen Taylor2024-03-27Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The staff at The Law People are total pros. They are friendly, supportive and above all they get results. Highly recommend, particularly if you are a woman who is nervous about being taken seriously. Tegan Robins2024-03-27Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Wonderful team to work with.Load more
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.
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:
You’re never pushed to escalate. You’re empowered to resolve.
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.
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.
Whether you’re at the beginning or ready to take the next step, collaborative law may be the most dignified, efficient path forward.
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.