De Facto Relationships Sydney - Trusted Advice
Guiding Sydney couples through their rights and property options in de facto relationships - with clear advice and fixed-fee pricing.
- Representing you and your interests, always
- Experienced and approachable
- Quality, responsive advice
- Compassionate, careful listening
Client Reviews
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"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
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"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
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"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
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"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
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"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 de facto relationship advice?
A de facto relationship is when two people live together as a couple on a genuine domestic basis, without being married. Many people don't realise the law can treat them in much the same way as a married couple.
Whether you're starting out, unsure where you stand or separating, we explain your rights in plain English. We'll help you work out what applies to you.
Areas we can help with
Whether your relationship counts as de facto
Property settlement when a de facto relationship ends
Parenting and child support after separation
Financial agreements for de facto couples
Time limits for applying to court
Understanding de facto relationships
Whether a relationship counts as de facto depends on your circumstances. A court looks at factors like how long you've lived together, shared finances, children and how others see you. In many ways de facto couples have the same rights as married couples, with some differences that we explain.
We help you understand where you stand and what your options are.
Tailored advice for your situation
Every relationship is different, so we shape our advice based on your personal circumstances.
Moving in together? A financial agreement can protect what each of you brings to the relationship.
Separated? We give you practical advice on dividing property and what happens to the home. Property settlements and parenting matters for de facto couples are generally dealt with under the Family Law Act.
Not sure of your status? There is no single rule, but a relationship of at least two years is often expected, with exceptions such as where there is a child or significant contributions.
Have children? We advise on parenting arrangements and child support after a de facto separation.
Partner has died? The law may treat a de facto partner like a spouse if there is no will. We help you understand your options.
What are the potential risks?
De facto couples generally have two years from the date of separation to apply for a property settlement. After that you would need the court's permission, so it is best to seek advice early. A binding financial agreement is only binding if each person receives independent legal advice.
Speak to Sydney's de facto relationship lawyers
Whether you're starting out or separating, 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.
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1. Get in touch
Contact us early so we can understand your situation and goals.
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2. Review & advise
We assess the details and explain your options in plain English.
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3. Plan your next steps
We confirm the approach, timeline and fixed fee upfront.
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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
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Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often about de facto relationships.
What counts as a de facto relationship?
Generally, a couple who live together on a genuine domestic basis without being married. A court looks at factors like how long you've lived together, shared finances, children and how others see you.
Do de facto couples have the same rights as married couples?
In many ways, yes. When a de facto relationship ends, property settlements and parenting matters are generally dealt with under the Family Law Act. There are some differences, and we'll explain them.
How long do we need to be together to be de facto?
There's no single rule. Often a relationship of at least two years is expected, but there are exceptions, such as where there is a child or significant contributions.
Is there a time limit to apply for a property settlement?
Yes. Generally, two years from the date of separation. After that, you'd need the court's permission, so it's best to seek advice early.
Can we make a financial agreement as a de facto couple?
Yes. A binding financial agreement can set out how property will be divided if you separate. Each person needs independent legal advice for it to be binding.
Who inherits if my de facto partner dies without a will?
The law may treat a de facto partner like a spouse if there's no will. A current will is the safest way to make your wishes clear, and we can help with that.
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
