Family Law Mediation Sydney - Trusted Advice
Guiding Sydney families through mediation and family dispute resolution to help reach agreement - with clear advice and fixed-fee pricing.
Client Reviews
-
"As a first time buyer, I needed careful guidance in my journey to becoming a home owner, I found that in Harriss Jones Lawyers. The efficiency, attention to detail and clear communication from Kathryn and the team meant that I could relax every step of the way until I signed on the dotted line."
Margi de Ferranti
-
"Cannot thank Kathryn and Annette enough for the help they provided at a tough time. Not only legally but - especially - for liaising with the aged care facility where a loved one is staying. They saved us a significant amount of money and stress. Thank you all so much."
K Smith
-
"The care and support the team at Harriss Jones gave was outstanding. They genuinely care about their customers and I will be using them again."
Kate Redpath
-
"As a first time buyer, I needed careful guidance in my journey to becoming a home owner, I found that in Harriss Jones Lawyers. The efficiency, attention to detail and clear communication from Kathryn and the team meant that I could relax every step of the way until I signed on the dotted line."
Margi de Ferranti
-
"Cannot thank Kathryn and Annette enough for the help they provided at a tough time. Not only legally but - especially - for liaising with the aged care facility where a loved one is staying. They saved us a significant amount of money and stress. Thank you all so much."
K Smith
-
"The care and support the team at Harriss Jones gave was outstanding. They genuinely care about their customers and I will be using them again."
Kate Redpath
More reviews on Google Reviews →
Looking for family law mediation advice?
Going to court can be slow, costly and stressful. Mediation offers another way. You and the other person sit down with a neutral third person who helps you talk through the issues and look for solutions.
We help you get ready for mediation, support you through it, and turn what you agree into something official. You stay in control of the outcome, rather than leaving the decision to a judge.
Khajinder (one of our family lawyers) also has a graduate diploma in family dispute resolution and is registered with the Attorney General's Office as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP). This means that she is qualified to not only represent clients, but also help resolve disputes for others.
Areas we can help with
Family dispute resolution (mediation) for parenting matters
Mediation for property and financial matters
Preparing for mediation
Lawyer-assisted mediation
Making your agreement legally binding
Understanding family law mediation
Family dispute resolution is a type of mediation with a neutral, accredited practitioner who helps separated families talk and reach agreement. It is generally confidential and doesn't involve a judge. Mediation is a useful tool that can help you avoid further costs and the stress of ongoing litigation.
While it can be difficult in heated separations, it is important to attend with an open mind and engage as much as possible, even if the other person does not. We help you prepare, support you through the process and make sure you understand the legal side.
Tailored advice for your situation
Every family is different, so we shape our advice based on your personal circumstances.
Separating? Mediation gives you a structured way to talk about the house, finances and next steps.
Sorting out parenting arrangements? A child-focused process to agree on living arrangements and time with each parent. For parenting matters you usually need a certificate from a family dispute resolution practitioner before applying to court, with some exceptions such as family violence or urgency.
Find it hard to talk? Lawyer-assisted mediation can keep conversations calm and focused.
Reached an agreement? Mediation is not legally binding by itself. We help you turn it into consent orders, a parenting plan or a binding financial agreement.
Family violence a concern? Mediation is not always suitable and your safety comes first. There are other options and exceptions, and we will talk through what is right for you. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
What are the potential risks?
If you commence proceedings without mediating, the court may order the parties to mediate and dismiss the proceedings until it takes place, which can make the process longer and more costly.
Speak to Sydney's family law mediation lawyers
Whether you are preparing for mediation or need help formalising an agreement, Harriss Jones Lawyers has the experience to guide you through every stage. Our team provides clear, practical advice and personalised support from your very first consultation.
The information on this page is general in nature and does not take into account your individual circumstances.
Call us today on 02 9575 7541 or complete the enquiry form below.
Why choose Harriss Jones Lawyers
Our experienced, approachable team listens first, gives you clear, responsive advice, and acts for you and your interests at every step.
From your first conversation, we take the time to understand your situation, plan ahead and deal with everyone involved on your behalf - so your matter is shaped around you, and the right questions are asked before they become problems.
-
1. Get in touch
Contact us early so we can understand your situation and goals.
-
2. Review & advise
We assess the details and explain your options in plain English.
-
3. Plan your next steps
We confirm the approach, timeline and fixed fee upfront.
-
4. We get it done
We manage the work and keep you updated through to completion.
Meet Our Team
Two Principal Solicitors and two licensed conveyancers, focused on getting your settlement right.
Kathryn Harriss
Solicitor
Along with Melanie, we commenced our practice with the goal to provide quality legal advice and assist people to navigate through the law.
Melanie Jones
Solicitor
Harriss Jones Lawyers has been a fulfilling and exciting adventure, and it is great to see our team develop and grow.
Nicole Aghabi
Solicitor
I've recently joined Harriss Jones Lawyers that brought our practices together. We're now able to provide support focused on Surrogacy.
Sarah Murray
Licensed Conveyancer
Working at Harriss Jones Lawyers has given me a great start to my legal career and has allowed me to learn so many important skills.
Annette Suann
Licensed Conveyancer
With over 30 years experience in conveyancing, it has been great to be part of a female team where we share a common passion.
Khajinder Kaur
Senior Associate Solicitor
As a family lawyer and Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, I help clients through separation, parenting, property and family violence matters. I focus on resolving disputes through negotiation wherever possible, so families can avoid the stress and cost of court.
Amelie Curley
Legal Clerk
I'm completing a double degree in Laws and Medical Science at UTS while gaining hands-on experience at Harriss Jones Lawyers. I mostly assist with Wills and estate planning matters, and I'm enjoying learning something new every day.
Nicole Thorne
Receptionist / Office Administration
With over 30 years' experience, I'm the first smiling face you'll meet when you walk into our office. I look after the firm's correspondence, safe custody records and staff diaries.
Our Legal Services
Proud members of…
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often about family law mediation.
What is family dispute resolution?
It's a type of mediation with a neutral, accredited practitioner who helps separated families talk and reach agreement. It's generally confidential and doesn't involve a judge.
Do I have to attend mediation before going to court?
For parenting matters, usually yes. You need a certificate from a family dispute resolution practitioner, with some exceptions such as family violence or urgency.
Is mediation legally binding?
Not by itself. Once you reach agreement, you can turn it into consent orders, a parenting plan or a binding financial agreement. We'll explain which is right for you.
What if the other person won't agree?
If agreement can't be reached, the practitioner may be able to issue a certificate. We can then talk about next steps, which might include further negotiation or a court application.If agreement can't be reached, the practitioner may be able to issue a certificate. We can then talk about next steps, which might include further negotiation or a court application.If agreement can't be reached, the practitioner may be able to issue a certificate. We can then talk about next steps, which might include further negotiation or a court application.If agreement can't be reached, the practitioner may be able to issue a certificate. We can then talk about next steps, which might include further negotiation or a court application.If agreement can't be reached, the practitioner may be able to issue a certificate. We can then talk about next steps, which might include further negotiation or a court application.If agreement can't be reached, the practitioner may be able to issue a certificate. We can then talk about next steps, which might include further negotiation or a court application.If agreement can't be reached, the practitioner may be able to issue a certificate. We can then talk about next steps, which might include further negotiation or a court application.If agreement can't be reached, the practitioner may be able to issue a certificate. We can then talk about next steps, which might include further negotiation or a court application.
Can I bring my lawyer to mediation?
In many cases, yes. Lawyer-assisted mediation can help keep discussions focused and make sure you understand the legal side. We'll talk about the best approach for you.
Is mediation suitable if there has been family violence?
Not always. Your safety comes first. There are other options and exceptions, and we'll talk through what's right for you. If you're in immediate danger, call 000.
What is your pricing?
At Harriss Jones Lawyers, after meeting with you to find out what you need, we will provide you with clear information on our professional fees that is specific to your matter. For more information get in touch with our team.
Our Legal Insights
Legal advice you can count on
Whatever brings you here - property, family, wills and estates, or business - call us, book a call directly, or complete the form and we'll be in touch.
- 02 9575 7541
- Contact Us
- 572 Box Road, Jannali, NSW 2226
- Mon–Fri, 9:00am – 5:00pm
Helping you through the key milestones of life - from property and family law to wills, estates and business.
Business Details
Harriss Jones Lawyers Pty. Ltd.
ABN: 84 165 555 233
Principals: Kathryn Harriss and Melanie Jones
Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.
© 2026 All rights reserved
Contact us today
- Phone: 02 9575 7541
- Address: 572 Box Road, Jannali, NSW 2226
- PO Box: PO Box 249, Oyster Bay, NSW 2225
