Supporting families through separation, dispute resolution, parenting arrangements and estate planning with practical advice and a pathway forward.
ps
clarity,
strategy,
children at
the centre
Helping you move from separation to succession.
We help families navigate life’s most significant transitions with clarity, strategy and compassion, protecting what matters most.
Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice .
Separation
Strategy
Session
Before making decisions that could impact your future, take the time to understand your options.
Our Separation Strategy Session is a comprehensive consultation designed to provide clarity, direction and a personalised roadmap tailored to your circumstances.
You leave with clear advice, a strategic plan and greater confidence about what comes next.
Parenting arrangements
Property settlement considerations
Financial planning issues
Immediate risk factors
Court and non-court options
Mediation and collaborative pathways
Practical next steps
After your session, you’ll leave with:
Clarity about your position and options
A clear and strategic plan tailored to you
Understanding of risks and protections
Practical next steps with confidence
Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice .
At Patford-Smith Legal Services, we understand that major life transitions can feel overwhelming. Whether you are considering separation, navigating parenting arrangements, resolving a property settlement, planning your estate, or seeking a pathway to agreement, we provide practical legal guidance focused on helping you move forward with confidence.
Your family. Your future.
Our focus
Our Process
Choose The Right Pathway
Negotiation, mediation, collaborative practice, parenting coordination or litigation.
Understand Your Position
Clear advice about your rights, obligations and options.
Move Forward With Confidence
Practical guidance focused on achieving workable outcomes.
Our Process
Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice . Steady Guidance . Strong Outcomes . Clear advice .
We know that
behind every legal
issue is a real person.
Our Services
Family Law
Supporting clients through parenting disputes, property settlements, divorce, financial agreements and complex family law matters.
Family Dispute Resolution & Mediation
Helping families reach practical agreements without unnecessary litigation wherever possible.
Parenting Coordination
Supporting separated parents to implement parenting arrangements and reduce ongoing conflict.
Collaborative Practice
A respectful, solution-focused approach that allows families to resolve issues outside of court.
Wills & Estates
Protecting your future with tailored estate planning, wills and powers of attorney.
LISTEN TO LAUREN ON
The Separation
Guide Podcast
MEET THE DIRECTOR
Lauren patford-smith
Lauren is an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, registered with the Attorney-General’s Department. She holds a Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Legal Studies and a Master of Applied Law (Family Law)., and is also an Independent Children’s Lawyer and Parenting Coordinator, having completed the additional training required for both roles.
Why choose us
Boutique Client-Focused Practice
Family law, Mediation and Parenting
Independent Children’s Lawyer
Children-Focused Approach
Parenting Coordination Services
Practical, Strategic Advice
Clear advice.
Steady guidance.
Genuine care.
Whether you are facing separation, seeking agreement or planning ahead, we are here to provide clear advice, steady guidance and genuine care.