Family Lawyer

The Firm

Elias Gates, formerly known as Elias, Gates & Associates, was founded in 1984 by George Elias and Mark Gates. What began as two high school friends with a shared vision has grown into a respected practice with a team of skilled, dedicated solicitors who continue to reflect that same commitment to excellence. For over four decades, we have delivered outstanding results and trusted advice to clients across Sydney.

Our practice spans Business & Commercial, Criminal, Family Law, Litigation, Probate & Estate Management, Property Law, and Wills & Estate Planning. Family Law is a core and growing area of the firm, with a strong and diverse client base.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an ambitious and capable Family Lawyer with a minimum of 3 years Post Admission Experience to join our team. You will have carriage of files from commencement to resolution, working autonomously while benefiting from the guidance and support of our Principals and experienced support staff.

You will advise and act across the full spectrum of family law matters, including parenting, property, spousal maintenance, child support, financial agreements, and urgent and interim applications. Experience in mediation and alternative dispute resolution will be highly regarded, as will confidence in preparing and running matters in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

Your responsibilities will include:

• taking detailed client instructions;
• developing case strategies;
• drafting and settling all relevant family law documents and court material;
• briefing and instructing counsel;
• negotiating with counterparties;
• preparing for and attending mediations, conciliation conferences and hearings; and
• managing matters efficiently to resolution.

You will work closely with colleagues across our broader practice areas where issues intersect, such as trusts, commercial structures and estates.

About You

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• 3 years post‑admission experience in family law.
• Strong technical knowledge of the Family Law Act and associated rules and practice directions, together with demonstrated experience managing a varied family law practice from end to end.
• Excellent drafting skills, particularly in affidavits, applications, minutes of orders, financial statements, position papers and binding financial agreements.
• Confidence with appearing at interlocutory and directions hearings, and comfortable briefing and collaborating with counsel for defended matters and final hearings.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with clients navigating sensitive and complex issues.
• Excellent organisational solutions‑focused skills, with sound judgment and the ability to prioritise competing deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• A calm, professional manner, strong attention to detail and a practical approach to negotiation and settlement are essential.
• Experience with mediation and FDR processes, and working knowledge of the Federal Circuit and Family Court e‑filing and practice systems, are advantageous.

What We Offer

We offer the opportunity to join a stable, well‑regarded firm with genuine support from senior practitioners, a steady pipeline of quality work, and a collaborative culture that values integrity, client service and professional growth. You will have autonomy over your matters, exposure to complex property and parenting disputes, and the ability to develop your practice within a respected multidisciplinary team. A competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience will be offered.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your family law experience and suitability for the role. All applications will be treated in strict confidence.