Most family law matters do not need to be decided by a judge.
At Bryant McKinnon Lawyers, we focus on resolving disputes efficiently and strategically through negotiation and mediation wherever appropriate.
Both partners are Accredited Specialist Family Lawyers with extensive experience resolving complex parenting and property disputes outside the courtroom. We understand how the Court approaches these matters — and that insight informs how we negotiate.
If you are looking for an experienced family lawyer to guide you through negotiation or mediation with clarity and discipline, we can assist.
We work transparently, often on a fixed fee basis, and we approach resolution with preparation and strategy.
Reaching agreement requires preparation, realism and a clear understanding of legal risk.
We assist with:
Our role is to position you strongly, ensure you understand your legal standing, and help you secure a sound and workable outcome.
In addition to representing clients in negotiation and mediation as lawyers, Benjamin Bryant also conducts independent family mediation as a Nationally Accredited Mediator and Registered Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) through a separate mediation practice.
When acting as a Nationally Accredited Mediator or Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, he does not provide legal advice and acts as a neutral facilitator.
If you are seeking independent mediation — whether before engaging lawyers or alongside existing legal representation — you can learn more here:
Benjamin Bryant Family Mediation →
This allows separating couples to access structured mediation where appropriate, while maintaining clear separation between legal representation and neutral dispute resolution.
You do not need to formally retain us or commit to litigation to seek advice.
Many clients begin with a preliminary consultation to understand:
Preparation is often the difference between a workable agreement and a failed negotiation.
In parenting and property matters, attendance at family dispute resolution is generally required before commencing Court proceedings, unless an exception applies.
We can advise you on your specific obligations.
A mediator or Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner is a neutral facilitator and does not provide legal advice.
A lawyer advises you about your legal rights, likely outcomes and risks, and represents your interests in negotiation.
Both roles can be important — but they are different.
Family law is federal law (with the exception of WA). We can act for clients anywhere in Australia.
Our offices are located in Coffs Harbour and Bellingen. We regularly assist clients across the Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers regions, including Kempsey, Taree, Macksville, Nambucca Heads, Sawtell, Urunga, Woolgoolga, Grafton, Lismore, Casino, Ballina and Byron Bay.
Many matters can be managed efficiently via phone and video conference.
Where possible, we scope stages of work and provide a fixed fee for that stage. You know what is included and what it will cost.
If circumstances change, we discuss it with you before additional work is undertaken.
For further guidance, please see our: