If you're going through a separation, you may be worried about how you'll keep a roof over your head and look after the kids, let alone pay a lawyer. I understand that, and it's a big part of why I keep my fees for Queensland families as low as I can. I'm Elisa Rothschild, principal at Fogarty Oliver Rothschild, and I've practised family law since 2012. I'm admitted in Victoria and to the High Court of Australia, which enables me to act in family law matters Australia-wide. Family law is federal: the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) applies in Logan exactly as in Melbourne, and de facto couples are covered by the same Act as married couples. I meet Logan clients by video, phone and email, I handle every matter myself, and I'll always take time to make sure you understand what's happening.
Logan families
Logan is home to a lot of young families, many of them in newer estates like Yarrabilba and around Park Ridge, often with a big mortgage and both parents working. When a couple separates with a recently built home and little equity yet, the options can feel limited — but there usually are options, and it helps to understand them before anyone makes a decision under pressure.
It's also a community of many cultures, faiths and languages, and family can mean a wide circle of relatives who help raise the children. I'll listen to what matters in your family, and if you'd be more comfortable with an interpreter, just let me know.
Agreeing, and making it stick
If you and your former partner can agree, consent orders make it final and enforceable without going to court. I draft the orders, check the financial disclosure behind them, and talk you through every clause before you sign. They're filed online with a $205 court fee and decided on the papers. Parenting orders must be in the children's best interests; property orders must be just and equitable.
Some people prefer a Binding Financial Agreement — a private contract under the Family Law Act that doesn't need a court's approval. Each of you needs independent legal advice before signing, so I act for one of you only.
Divorce and time limits
After 12 months of separation, you can apply for divorce alone or jointly through the Commonwealth Courts Portal. The filing fee is $1,125, but if you hold certain concession cards or are experiencing financial hardship, it can be reduced to $375 — I'll help you check. Property is a separate step, with time limits: generally 12 months after divorce, or two years from separation for de facto couples.
Applications are filed online, so agreed matters don't need anyone to attend court. If a hearing is ever needed, the court allocates the registry, and I appear by video link where the court permits, or in person where required.
What it costs
My fees for Queensland clients are lower than my Victorian fees, because I want proper advice to be within reach. A joint divorce application is $750 and a sole application $990. Consent orders are $990 for property only or parenting only, and $1,490 for both. A straightforward BFA starts from $1,490, and complex agreements range from $2,990 to $4,950. Court fees are on top. Your fee is confirmed in writing after the free 30-minute consultation, before any work starts, so you'll know exactly where you stand.
If you don't feel safe
If you're in danger, please call 000. For confidential support, 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) is there 24 hours a day. In Queensland, domestic violence protection orders are made by the Magistrates Court under Queensland law. Tell me about any safety concerns at the start so that any arrangement properly protects you and your children.
Frequently asked questions — family law in Logan
Can a Melbourne family lawyer help me in Logan?+
Yes. Family law is federal, and applications are filed online with the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. I'm admitted in Victoria and to the High Court of Australia, which enables me to act in family law matters Australia-wide, and I work with Logan clients by video and phone.
Can I get the divorce filing fee reduced?+
Possibly. The court charges a reduced fee of $375 instead of $1,125 if you hold certain government concession cards or can show financial hardship. I'll help you check whether you qualify.
We've only just bought our house. What happens now?+
It depends on the equity, who can afford the mortgage, and each of your contributions and needs. Sometimes one person refinances; sometimes selling makes more sense. I'll walk you through the realistic options in the free consultation.
How much are consent orders for Logan clients?+
My fixed fee for Queensland clients is $990 for property only or parenting only, or $1,490 for both, plus the $205 court filing fee. Your fee is confirmed in writing before any work starts.
What happens in the free 30-minute consultation?+
You tell me what's happening and what you're most worried about. I listen, then explain your options, the likely next steps and roughly what it would cost. It's by video or phone, confidential, and there's no obligation.
Family law help for Logan, whatever you're facing
Whatever stage you're at, you don't have to work it out on your own. Here's how I help Logan families — calmly, honestly, and always on your side.
Divorce lawyer in Logan
From the divorce application itself through to dividing property and sorting arrangements for the children — handled one calm step at a time, in plain English. See how I help with divorce →
Child custody & parenting lawyer in Logan
Where the children live, time with each parent, and how the big decisions get made — always guided by what's genuinely best for them, never point-scoring. Parenting & children's issues →
Property settlement lawyer in Logan
Dividing the home, superannuation, savings and debts fairly, with as little conflict as possible. How property settlement works → · What a family lawyer costs →
Reviewed by Elisa Rothschild BA/LLB — Principal Lawyer, Fogarty Oliver Rothschild. Last reviewed 2026-05-28.