Checks & Balances Law – Australia
Mana Ghadirian
Principal Lawyer
- Strategic approach to family law
- Clear advice about your options and costs.
- A strong focus on negotiation, not litigation.
- Discuss sensitive and complex matters
Checks & Balances Law was founded on a simple belief — that quality legal advice should be accessible, transparent, and genuinely supportive. I help clients navigate Family Law with clarity and confidence.
Welcome to Checks & Balances Law
Checks & Balances Law was founded on a simple belief — that quality legal advice should be accessible, transparent, and genuinely supportive.
How We Will Work Together
A simple three-step layout:
1. Tell us what is happening
You do not need to have every document or answer ready for the first conversation.
2. Understand your options
We identify the immediate issues, available pathways and likely next steps.
3. Move forward with a strategy
Your matter is approached through negotiation, formal agreements or court proceedings as appropriate.
Divorce Can Feel Overwhelming.
I’m Here to Help.
My preference is always to help clients move through separation as calmly and efficiently as their circumstances allow. Where agreement is possible, I focus on practical solutions that avoid unnecessary court proceedings.
Having advised clients through many different separations—from straightforward applications to complex and highly contested matters—I understand that every family’s circumstances are different.
Property & Financial Matters
I have worked on many complex financial disputes, and I understand that the outcome can affect not only your immediate circumstances but also your long-term financial security.
My role is to help you understand what forms part of the property pool, identify the issues that genuinely matter and develop a clear strategy for moving forward. If assets are hidden, valuations are disputed or an agreement cannot be reached, I will ensure that your position is thoroughly prepared and firmly represented.
Early preparation and focused negotiation can reduce cost, delay and emotional pressure. Every matter is different, and no particular outcome can be guaranteed.
Mana Ghadirian
Parenting & Children
I have assisted parents through many different situations—from agreeing on practical arrangements to highly contested disputes involving relocation, family violence and concerns about a child’s safety.
My role is to help you focus on what matters most, understand your legal options and work towards arrangements that are practical and in your children’s best interests. If an agreement cannot be reached or urgent protection is required, I will prepare your case thoroughly and represent your position firmly.
Family Violence & Child Safety
I have assisted clients facing many different forms of family violence, including physical abuse, coercive control, threats, financial abuse, intimidation and behaviour that places children at risk.
I understand how difficult it can be to discuss these experiences, particularly when you are worried about your safety, your children or the consequences of taking legal action.
Where urgent court action is necessary, I will act firmly to protect your position and the wellbeing of your children.
Questions My Clients Often Ask
When should I speak with a family lawyer?
It is helpful to obtain legal advice as early as possible, including before you formally separate or make important decisions about children, property or finances. Early advice can help you understand your rights, protect your position and avoid steps that may make the dispute more difficult. You do not need to wait until court proceedings have started.
Do I have to go to court?
Not necessarily. Many family law matters are resolved through negotiation, mediation or a formal agreement without a final court hearing. Court proceedings may be necessary when the parties cannot reach an agreement, urgent orders are required or there are concerns involving family violence, child safety or the preservation of property. The appropriate approach will depend on your circumstances.
Can I obtain legal advice before telling my spouse?
Yes. You can speak with me privately before discussing separation with your spouse. This allows you to understand your legal position, consider practical and safety issues, and prepare for decisions involving children, finances, property and living arrangements. Obtaining advice does not oblige you to separate or begin legal proceedings.
Are consultations confidential?
Yes. Communications between you and me are generally confidential and may also be protected by legal professional privilege. At the beginning of the consultation, any applicable limits or exceptions will be explained. Contacting me does not require you to proceed with a legal matter.
Can you assist me if I live outside Sydney?
Yes. Although our offices are located in Sydney CBD and Parramatta, we assist clients across New South Wales and throughout Australia. Many consultations, negotiations and procedural court appearances can be conducted by telephone or online, depending on the nature and requirements of the matter.
Why us
- Expertise and Experience in the Australian Legal System
We have extensive knowledge of family and divorce law in New South Wales and the Australian court system—from local courts to the federal courts, in Sydney and across Australia. Years of assisting members of the Iranian community have also given us valuable experience in resolving their legal disputes. - Honest Advice
No unrealistic promises or confusing legal terminology. We explain what you genuinely need to know honestly and in plain language. - Transparent Fees
You will be informed about the relevant costs from the outset, with no unexpected charges.
Approximately 95% of my matters resolve without requiring a final court hearing.
Mana Ghadirian
