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02 9283 5599

Counsel for matters where the stakes are significant

When a relationship ends, and the assets, interests, and structures involved are substantial, the quality of your legal advice will shape outcomes that last a lifetime. Koffels acts for individuals, business owners, and executives navigating family law matters of genuine complexity, where property portfolios, private companies, trust structures, and cross-border interests require more than standard family law practice.

We understand that discretion is not optional. It is the foundation of every instruction we accept.

Why Koffels

A different kind of family law practice

Koffels is a full-service firm with deep capability across corporate, commercial, and litigation law. Our family law practice draws on that breadth. When a property settlement involves a privately held business, a discretionary trust, or assets held across multiple jurisdictions, we have the in-house expertise — and the external relationships with senior forensic accountants and counsel — to handle that complexity without referring it out.

We have acted in some of the most significant family law proceedings in Australia. The nature of those matters means we will not discuss them. That same discretion applies to every client we represent.

We do not offer a low-cost, high-volume service. We offer considered, senior-level advice to clients for whom the right outcome matters more than a fast one.

What We Handle

Matters we regularly advise on

Our family law practice is experienced across the full range of matters arising from relationship breakdown, with particular depth in:

Property settlements involving business interests

Where one or both parties hold interests in a private company, partnership, or professional practice, settlement requires careful analysis of business value, shareholder agreements, and the treatment of goodwill. We work closely with forensic accountants and valuers to present and rigorously test valuations.

Trust structures and asset protection

The treatment of discretionary trusts in family law proceedings remains one of the most contested areas of the jurisdiction. We advise clients on both the risks to existing structures and the proper approach to financial disclosure obligations.

Binding Financial Agreements BFAs executed before, during, or after a relationship require technical precision to be enforceable. We draft and advise on BFAs for clients with significant assets, including those involving business interests, inherited wealth, and international property.

Cross-border and international matters

Where assets, children, or parties are located across jurisdictions, proceedings require careful navigation of applicable law and enforcement. Our international relationships allow us to coordinate advice across multiple jurisdictions when required.

High-conflict parenting matters

When parenting proceedings involve serious allegations, international relocation, or significant complexity, we provide experienced representation focused on achieving durable outcomes for children and families.

Spousal maintenance and financial support

We advise on maintenance entitlements and obligations in circumstances involving significant income disparity, long marriages, and career sacrifices within the relationship.

For Professional Advisers

Referrals from professional advisers

Accountants, financial planners, corporate solicitors, and other advisers who identify a client with a complex family law matter are welcome to contact us directly. We understand the trust involved in referring a valued client, and we take that responsibility seriously. We will keep you informed where appropriate and return the relationship to you when the matter concludes.

If you would like to discuss a client’s situation confidentially, please call us on +612 9283 5599 or contact a member of our team directly.

Common questions

Do I need to go to court?

Most family law matters, including those involving substantial assets, are resolved without litigation. We approach every matter with the objective of a negotiated outcome — not because it is cheaper, but because it is usually better. Where proceedings are unavoidable, we are fully prepared to represent you.

What is a Binding Financial Agreement and is it enforceable?

A BFA is a private agreement between parties that deals with financial matters in the event of a relationship breakdown. To be enforceable under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth), strict requirements must be met, including that each party receives independent legal advice before signing. Poorly drafted BFAs have been set aside by courts on a number of grounds. We advise on BFAs that are structured to withstand scrutiny.

How are business interests treated in a property settlement?

A party’s interest in a private business is treated as property for the purposes of a family law settlement. The valuation of that interest — and whether it is properly characterised as an asset of the relationship — is frequently contested. The methodology used by valuers, and the assumptions underlying any valuation, can have a material impact on the outcome.

What is the role of discretionary trusts in family law proceedings?

This is a complex and evolving area. Courts have the power to make orders affecting trust distributions in certain circumstances. Disclosure obligations extend to trust interests. The specific facts, the trust deed, and the nature of the party’s interest all affect how a trust is treated. We advise on this on a matter-by-matter basis.

How long does a property settlement take?

This depends entirely on the complexity of the matter, the degree of dispute, and whether proceedings are required. Negotiated settlements in complex matters may take six to eighteen months. Contested litigation can take considerably longer. We will give you a realistic assessment at the outset.

Ross Koffel

Speak with us in confidence