Aspire Family law 

Mediation | Property | Children



10/95 North Quay  
Brisbane QLD 4000  
(07) 3188 1766














established experience

Our Principal, Jacqueline Stassen, has been a qualified solicitor since 1999, and holds a masters' degree in Family Law.

Jacqueline has extensive advocacy experience in the Federal Circuit Court and the Family Court, particularly in children's matters, and has also represented clients in two Supreme Court appeals.

we stand with you 

Our comprehensive family law services encompass attending mediation with you, time with your children, property settlements, and litigation in the Federal Circuit Court and Family Court.


child focused services

In parenting matters, Jacqueline is dedicated to securing child-focused legal outcomes for her clients for both parenting and property matters.

We offer fixed fee services and always ensure our client's are aware of unexpected costs. 

We always provide realistic advice for potential outcomes. 

You will receive clear, honest,  communication from us.

Our Services


What is Mediation?
Mediation is a structured process designed to assist separating or separated families in reaching their own agreements. The pre-action procedures and FDR process aim to help parties resolve disputes quickly, reducing the need for court interventions. This approach not only minimizes costs but also alleviates the stress associated with court proceedings.

What is the Mediation Process?
Parties are now required to submit a Genuine Steps Certificate when filing an application to commence property and/or parenting proceedings in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, or in response to such applications. This certificate must demonstrate that the parties have made genuine attempts to resolve their dispute through alternative dispute resolution.

Before submitting an application for parenting  orders, it is a requirement under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) for parties to participate in Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) and to demonstrate a genuine effort to resolve their family disputes. A section 60I family dispute resolution certificate must accompany your application unless exemptions apply.

We can manage your mediaiton process and support you during your mediation session.

 Aspire help you with a variety of issues involving children, for example:

- Determining the primary residence of a child.
- Establishing the time allocation for a child to spend with each parent or caregiver.
- Making everyday and long-term decisions related to education, religion, and relocation.
- Facilitating communication between a child and other important individuals in their life.


We specialise in creating comprehensive parenting agreements and filing consent orders in the Federal Circuit Court and Family Court. We guide you through each step before applying for a court order variation to adapt to the changing needs and circumstances of the child and the parties involved.

Additionally, we provide support for resolving disputes related to the terms of a parenting plan and assist parents facing alienation from their children in the following situations:

- A child has been taken by one parent, leaving the other unaware of their whereabouts.
- A child is at risk of being taken out of the country without the consent of both parents.
- A child is with one parent, and the other suspects the child may be in serious danger.
- One parent intends to relocate with the child a significant distance from the other parent.
- One parent has stopped a child spending time with the other parent.

We also understand the importance of maintaining a child's connection with significant individuals, such as grandparents, and the complexities surrounding relocation, substance abuse, neglect, and child abuse.

Parenting Orders
Parenting Orders can be established through mutual consent of both parents ("Consent Orders"). Parenting orders are essential for reducing conflicts arising from uncertainties in parenting arrangements. Once sealed by the court both parties are legally bound to comply with each order.. Non compliance can result in one party instigating contravention proceedings. If the court finds the contravention to be proved, a parent can be forced to comply with the orders, fined or face imprisonment.

Federal Circuit Court and Family Court Litigation
In some cases, negotiations may not be feasible due to safety concerns for children, the presence of domestic violence, or urgent circumstances. In such situations, Aspire can guide you on how to initiate litigation in the Federal Circuit Court and Family Court.

Parents are encouraged to resolve parenting disputes independently, even after court proceedings have commenced. If an agreement cannot be reached, disputed parenting matters can take over two years to finalise in court. Our family lawyers are adept at managing prolonged litigation and have successfully assisted clients in achieving favorable outcomes at the conclusion of contentious hearings. While our expertise in navigating lengthy proceedings is noteworthy, our primary focus is on helping clients resolve disputes amicably, thereby minimizing costs and emotional distress.

If you need assistance with agreeing on parenting issues with your ex spouse, or obtaining Parenting Orders, our experts at Aspire Family Law are here to help. Contact us to schedule an appointment with a family lawyer at your nearest Aspire office.

After separation, navigating property and financial settlements can be challenging. Therefore, we strongly encourage addressing these matters as early as possible.

Even if you have reached an agreement with your partner, seeking legal advice is crucial to ensure that the agreement is likely to be upheld by a court. We frequently encounter clients who come to court unrepresented, only to find out from a judge that their agreement is neither fair nor reasonable. Additionally, strict deadlines exist for filing specific types of property settlements with the court; delaying could mean missing out entirely. This might lead to prolonged disputes over asset division or, in the worst-case scenario, result in receiving nothing.

You may have concerns about who will remain in the family home, how bank accounts should be divided, and how to approach superannuation. Moreover, you may need to assess investments and various structures, such as trusts and companies, and consider the potential implications for third parties. Each case is evaluated individually. Our clients are often surprised by overlooked issues, such as tax consequences, future needs, and the impact of domestic violence on property settlements.

Aspire will guide you through the necessary steps, advise you on your potential entitlements, and help you achieve the best possible outcome. We provide realistic advice and refrain from making unrealistic promises. We often conduct a cost-benefit analysis with our clients, helping you evaluate how much a specific course of action may cost relative to its potential benefits. Aspire is committed to helping you resolve your case swiftly while ensuring you secure your financial future to the best of your ability.

Family violence can significantly influence the outcomes of parenting disputes and financial settlements. It is not uncommon for parties in parenting matters to be either subject to a Police Protection Order or to have been aggrieved.

Parents subject to a protection order should not be discouraged from applying for time with their children, even if the common perception is the opposite. The court will determine that a child should spend time with each parent, provided it is in the best interests of the child. The court generally determines the best interest of the child is to have a meaningful relationship with both parents as long as the court is satisfied the child is not a risk from either parent. 


Aspire Family Law is experienced with managing complicated parenting matters, we can provide you with initial information if you are planning to leave a family violence situation, or if you find yourself being told you can't see your children due to a family violence incident. 


Aspire can support you through complex parenting matters such as:

  • Evatt's Matter list
  • serious allegations
  • illicit substance
  • contravention applications
  • analysis of subpoena material from QLD Police. Department of Education and child safety
  • case outlines and appear during Interim hearings
  • urgent applications
  • parents seeking a change of a child’s primary home.
  • domestic violence orders
  • relocation of children 
  • alienation of parent from child


When applying for a divorce, the Family Law Act does not consider the reasons behind the breakdown of the marriage; it simply requires proof that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. This is demonstrated by a separation of the parties for at least twelve months. If you have been married and separated for this duration, you may apply for a divorce in either the Family Court or the Federal Magistrates Court.

If your marriage lasted less than two years, you will typically need to obtain a counselling certificate before filing for divorce. Additionally, if you have children, the Court must be satisfied that you have made appropriate arrangements for their welfare prior to granting the divorce.

While a divorce signifies the legal termination of your marriage, it does not resolve issues related to child custody, child support, property division, or spousal maintenance. These matters are addressed separately.

For recognition under Australian family law, a de facto relationship must possess a “genuine domestic basis,” meaning it resembles a marriage, even if the couple doesn’t reside together full-time.

Several factors can suggest a genuine domestic basis:

- **Length of the relationship**: The longer the relationship lasts, the more serious it is likely to be considered.
- **Living arrangements**: While cohabitation can signify commitment, it isn't mandatory. Partners may live separately due to work or personal choices yet still lead a shared life.
- **Financial interdependence**: Connected finances, such as joint accounts or shared expenses, demonstrate a commitment to a shared future.
- **Social recognition**: If friends, family, and the community acknowledge you as a couple, this reinforces the existence of a de facto relationship.
- **Shared responsibilities**: Activities like raising children, caring for one another, or making future plans together often indicate a genuine domestic basis.
- **Property ownership or use**: Joint ownership or usage of property reflects a shared commitment, regardless of living arrangements.
- **Mutual commitment**: Emotional and practical commitments—such as future planning and providing support for one another—suggest a relationship akin to marriage.

These factors serve as guidelines rather than rigid rules. Courts assess the overall context instead of simply checking a list. If your relationship aligns with these criteria, you may have rights similar to those of a married couple, including property settlements and financial support.

Aspire can manage your Federal Circuit Court and Family Court litigation from the initial stages of commencing an initiating application or responding to an initiating application, right through to briefing a barrister for a final hearing.


We will also support you to reach an agreement before litigation is started. In some cases, negotiations may not be feasible due to safety concerns for children, the presence of domestic violence, or urgent circumstances. In such situations, Aspire can guide you on how to initiate litigation in the Federal Circuit Court and Family Court, without complying the requirement to undergo pre litigation dispute resolution. 

Parents are encouraged to resolve parenting disputes independently, even after court proceedings have commenced. If an agreement cannot be reached, disputed parenting matters can take over two years to finalise in court. Our family lawyers are adept at managing prolonged litigation and have successfully assisted clients in achieving favorable outcomes at the conclusion of contentious hearings. While our expertise in navigating lengthy proceedings is noteworthy, our primary focus is on helping clients resolve disputes amicably, thereby minimizing costs and emotional distress.


Family Court litigation is a complicated process requiring several stages of filing court documents and attending court dates. Not filing court documents by the required date can have significant consequences for your family law matter.  


Jacqueline is experienced in preparing family court material that is “on the offensive” to give clients the best possible opportunity in obtaining a favorable decision from a Senior Judicial Registrar or Judge.

Aspire has worked with same sex clients during complex litigation regarding children and donors. We are an inclusive and open-minded legal practice.  Our duty of confidentiality to our clients is followed strictly. 

advice on planning to separate or recently separated

Separation and divorce can be an emotional journey for many individuals. We are here to support you through this challenging and stressful time with empathy and understanding.

We prioritize problem-solving and strive to provide pragmatic, realistic advice on resolving issues related to time with children and property settlements.

Seeking legal advice early is essential for understanding your rights and the available options.

Aspire will be by your side every step of the way.

Separation is a difficult period, and important decisions need to be made quickly, such as care arrangements for your children, how to protect your finances, and addressing any safety concerns you have for yourself or family.

we keep you informed

We will explain in uncomplicated language how family law relates to your individual circumstances. Aspire is a friendly and approachable law firm. Our experience will guide you on the possible outcomes for your case.

we advocating for you

Advocating for you is what we do. This may take the form of negotiating on your behalf with your former partner, drafting court documents, and standing up for you in court.

 certainty 

 Having parenting and property agreements documented in consent orders creates certainty and closure. Consent orders also have the advantage of being enforceable by the court.

Venue 

Aspire operates from Clarence Chambers at 10/95 North Quay Brisbane. This contemporary space will set you at ease while personally attending our office during teleconference court mentions, meditations and conferences. You will have complimentary refreshments, including Nespresso coffee and T2 tea. There is a convenient café located on the ground floor. Our North Quay location in the Brisbane CBD is easily accessible by public transport.

We provide facilities designed for effective mediations, featuring a conference room for joint sessions as well as private rooms for each party, their lawyers, and/or support persons. These spaces offer ample room and breakout areas, ensuring a safe and confidential mediation environment.


We can assess your individual circumstances and recommend the session structure that best fits your needs.

we act with integrity