Divorce & separation
Advice on separation, the divorce application and the 12-month requirement, including separating under one roof.
Family Law
Clear answers when your family's future feels uncertain.
Separation, divorce, parenting arrangements and property settlements, handled with compassion and a steady strategy, so you understand your rights and reach a resolution you can live with.
Book a consultation
Google Reviews 5.0
The hardest decisions, made when you're least able to make them
Separation rarely arrives at a convenient time. You’re managing emotions, children, money and an uncertain future all at once, and on top of it, you’re expected to make decisions that will shape the next chapter of your life, often without knowing where you stand legally.
That uncertainty is where people get hurt. Not knowing that a property settlement claim has a deadline (12 months after a divorce is finalised, or two years from separation for de facto couples), or that parenting matters usually need an attempt at mediation before court, can quietly cost you options and entitlements.
We give you that footing back. We explain your rights in plain language, work toward agreement and out of court wherever it’s possible, and act decisively when it isn’t, always aiming for a workable outcome for you and your children, not a war of attrition. You’ll always know where you stand and what comes next.
What's included
Support across every family law matter
From the first decision to a final agreement, we cover the matters that come with separation and family change.
Parenting & children
Workable parenting arrangements built around the best interests of your children, reached by agreement wherever possible.
Property settlement
Dividing assets, property and finances fairly, and protecting your entitlements within the time limits that apply.
De facto relationships
Advice on the rights and obligations of de facto partners, which can differ from married couples in important ways.
Mediation & dispute resolution
Reaching agreement through family dispute resolution: faster, less costly and less combative than court.
Consent orders & agreements
Formalising what you've agreed so it's binding and enforceable, through consent orders or financial agreements.
Why Vanguard
Legal advice that feels
empowering, not overwhelming.
We pair expert legal knowledge with practical strategy to resolve your challenges efficiently, and keep you informed and supported at every step.
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Genuine expertise
Highly qualified across commercial, property, family, criminal, employment and estate law, so your matter is handled by people who do this every day.
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Honest, jargon-free advice
Transparent communication and clear guidance. You'll always know where you stand, what it costs, and what happens next.
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On your terms
Flexible consultations: in person at Bankstown, by phone or by video. Legal help that fits around your life, not the other way around.
Facing separation and unsure where you stand?
Book a consultation for clear, compassionate advice on your rights and your next step. No obligation.
Mervat Sayed
Principal Solicitor & Founder
Mervat brings a grounded, people-first approach to legal practice, combining technical expertise with a genuine commitment to accessible, empowering advice. She has worked across commercial and property, family law, wills and estates, criminal law and litigation, and is known for clear communication and client empathy.
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Bachelor of Social Science (Peace & Development)
- Admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW
How it works
Getting started is straightforward.
- 01
Book your consultation
Book online in under a minute or call us directly. We'll find a time that suits: in person, by phone or video.
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Get a tailored strategy
We listen, cut the jargon, and give you a clear, personalised plan built around your goals and your situation.
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Move forward with confidence
We act decisively to resolve your matter, keeping you informed and supported at every step.
Family Law FAQs
Family Law questions, answered.
Can't find what you're looking for? Call us on (02) 8766 2575. We're happy to help.
How long must we be separated before applying for divorce in Australia?
A couple must be separated for 12 months before applying for divorce in Australia. Divorce is no-fault, so the court needs only proof the marriage broke down. Couples can separate under one roof and still meet the 12-month rule. Our Family Law team prepares the application and supporting affidavit.
How long do I have to claim a property settlement after separation?
A married person has 12 months after the divorce becomes final to apply for a property settlement, and a de facto partner has 2 years from separation. From 10 June 2025 the court also considers the economic effect of family violence when dividing property. Book a consultation to understand your entitlements.
Who decides where the children live after separation?
Parents decide where children live by agreement, and the court decides only when they cannot. The court applies the best interests of the child as the paramount consideration, weighing safety, the child's views, and each parent's capacity. Explore our full range of legal services for related family matters.
What is the difference between mediation and court in a family dispute?
Family dispute resolution settles most parenting and property matters without a judge. Parents must attempt mediation and obtain a section 60I certificate before filing parenting proceedings, except in cases of family violence or urgency. When agreement fails, our Litigation & Dispute Resolution team represents you in court.
Mervat was amazing throughout our entire home loan journey, from contract review through to settlement. Her fast responses ensured we didn't lose the property when timing was critical, and she made the whole settlement process feel simple and stress-free.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Catherine Shemon on Google.
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I'm beyond grateful for the expertise Mervat showed in handling my legal matter, along with the genuine care provided throughout the entire process. I couldn't be more pleased with the outcome — I couldn't recommend anyone more highly!
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Medina Sabanovic on Google.
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I had a great experience working with Vanguard Lawyers for the settlement of my property. They were professional, responsive, and kept me informed throughout the entire process, making everything smooth and stress-free. Highly recommend their services.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Manpreet Kaur on Google.
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From our very first conversation, Mervat was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about my situation. Thanks to her dedication and strategic approach, we achieved a successful outcome. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a trustworthy and results-driven legal professional.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Michael Smith Yassine on Google.
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We are extremely grateful for the outstanding service you provided while helping us purchase our unit. From start to finish, your expert guidance kept us informed and confident, while your professionalism and genuine support made what could have been a stressful process remarkably smooth.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Al Moroni on Google.
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I had the pleasure of working with Mervat recently and couldn't be more impressed. She explained everything clearly, kept me informed throughout the process, and handled my matter with confidence and care. Her attention to detail and calm approach made a stressful situation much easier to deal with.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Khodar Harbouki on Google.
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Mervat was professional, supportive, and highly knowledgeable. She worked hard to achieve the best outcome for us. I highly recommend her and the team at Vanguard Lawyers.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Amanda Branthwaite on Google.
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I highly recommend Mervat. She is a passionate, caring and experienced lawyer. Mervat has done some great work for my family and I, and I can't recommend her enough.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Guljan Boga on Google.
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Mervat was fantastic in all my dealings with her. She is a fantastic and knowledgeable lawyer and I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone!
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Nour Salama on Google.
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Mervat is an outstanding lawyer. Her knowledge and expertise is an absolute weapon in any legal battle. Thoroughly impressed.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Dan Mikati on Google.
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Thank you Mervat for assistance with my matter — couldn't have asked for a better lawyer to protect my interests!
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Charlie Pollock on Google.
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Your professionalism, expertise, and prompt communication made a typically stressful process incredibly smooth and straightforward. I especially appreciate Mervat Sayed for patiently explaining the contract terms whenever we had difficulty understanding, and for being available on the phone to clarify any doubts.
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Nirmala Berkmans on Google.
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Professional and easy to deal with. They explained everything clearly and handled my matter so well. I felt confident throughout the process — highly recommend!
5 out of 5 stars. Review by Lilly on Google.
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As a first home buyer, I was pretty nervous about the whole settlement process, but Vanguard Lawyers made it incredibly smooth and stress-free. Mervat explained everything clearly, kept me updated at every stage, and was always available to answer my questions. Highly recommend Vanguard Lawyers to anyone needing help with their property settlement!
5 out of 5 stars. Review by R S on Google.
Book a consultation
Book your Family Law consultation.
Tell us what you need and we'll be in touch quickly with clear, honest advice and the next steps. No obligation.
- Call (02) 8766 2575
- Email info@vanguardlaw.com.au
- Visit Level 1, Suite 1/443 Chapel Rd, Bankstown NSW 2200
- Hours Monday–Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm