THE TEAM · NEWSTEAD, BRISBANE
Your brisbane family law firm
Family law touches the most personal parts of life. Here's who you'll be working with — and why they care about getting it right for you.
Compassion that acts. Strategy that delivers.
DILIGENCE | EMPATHY | INTEGRITY | PASSION | SUCCESS
PRINCIPAL
Marie Sambanis
Marie Sambanis is the Founder and Principal of Sambanis Family Law. Practising exclusively in family law, Marie has extensive experience advising clients across all aspects of family law, with a particular skillset in complex property settlements, financial disputes and challenging parenting matters arising from the breakdown of a marriage or de facto relationship.
Prior to establishing Sambanis Family Law in 2012, Marie practised in commercial and property law, providing her with a unique understanding of issues arising in complex family law matters. This experience enables her to confidently navigate matters involving family businesses, companies, trusts, substantial asset structures, international assets and cross-border family law disputes.
Marie has significant experience conducting matters in both Division 1 and Division 2 of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, including complex interim applications and final hearings. While she is highly regarded for her negotiation and dispute resolution skills, she is also a determined and strategic advocate when litigation becomes necessary. Her holistic approach and technical expertise have earned her the respect of clients, colleagues and members of the profession alike.
Areas of Expertise
Qualifications
- Juris Doctor, UQ
- Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice, QUT
- Bachelor of Arts in Justice Administration, Griffith University
- Solicitor admitted in the Supreme Court of Queensland
- Solicitor admitted in the High Court of Australia
Genuinely committed to our community
Marie is committed to promoting access to justice and supporting vulnerable members of the community.
Legal Aid Queensland
Sambanis Family Law is a Queensland legal preferred supplier for Legal Aid Queensland, helping ensure people who need quality family law advice can access it — regardless of their circumstances.
Women's Legal Service Queensland
Marie supports Women's Legal Service Queensland in its work to help women navigate complex legal issues through compassionate support and effective advocacy.
THE REST OF THE TEAM
People you'll get to know
Emma Olds
solicitorEmma brings a thoughtful, energetic and compassionate approach to her work at Sambanis Family Law. Recognising that family law matters can be deeply personal and challenging, she takes the time to understand each client's circumstances and ensures they feel heard, supported and informed throughout the process. With a calm and considered demeanour, Emma communicates clearly, pays close attention to detail and works collaboratively with the legal team to help develop practical solutions tailored to each client's needs.
Outside of work, Emma enjoys rock climbing, reading and writing. Her adventurous spirit and curiosity reflect her enthusiasm for learning and taking on new challenges.
Areas of Focus
- Parenting and children's matters
- Complex parenting disputes and risk-related issues
- Family violence considerations in parenting and property matters
- Property settlements
- Negotiation and dispute resolution
- Family law litigation
- Divorce applications
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Laws (Honours), UQ
- Bachelor of Business Management (International Business), UQ
- Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (GDLP), Leo Cussen
- Solicitor admitted in the Supreme Court of Queensland
- Solicitor admitted in the High Court of Australia
Memberships
- Queensland Law Society
- Family Law Practitioners' Association of Queensland
Nayyer Qureshi
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTNayyer is a qualified and dedicated Chartered Accountant and taxation expert with many years’ experience across Australia, UAE and the UK in a multitude of leadership and advisory roles. Nayyer is passionate about being at the forefront of change processes and controls whilst driving compliance with state and federal laws. He is proficient in taxation, reporting and predictive analysis.
Outside of work, Nayyer enjoys spending his time with family and friends and is an active participant in his local community, including assisting new migrants to find their feet and understand services available to them.
Areas of Focus
- Taxation
- Financial reporting
- Financial and predictive analysis
- Financial compliance, processes and controls
Elijah Smith
paralegalElijah is a dedicated member of the Sambanis Family Law team and is in the final stages of completing a Dual Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Finance at QUT. He assists with a broad range of family law matters, with a particular focus on complex property settlements, financial disputes and litigation. Combining his legal and financial studies, Elijah brings a methodical and analytical approach to matters involving financial disclosure, evidentiary analysis and dispute resolution. He has experience assisting with complex property proceedings involving companies, trusts, superannuation interests and international assets.
Outside of work, Elijah enjoys fishing, mixed martial arts and spending time outdoors on the weekends.
Areas of Focus
- Complex property and financial settlement
- Disclosure management and forensic investigation
- Companies, trusts and business structures
- Superannuation and financial resources
- Family law litigation
- Evidence and hearing preparation
- Negotiation and dispute resolution
- International and cross-border property matters
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Laws (Honours), QUT (expected 2026)
- Bachelor of Finance, QUT (expected 2026)
Memberships
- QUT Law Society
Debra Mogridge
law clerkWith more than 15 years of experience in the banking and financial services industry, Deb brings valuable professional experience, strong organisational skills and a meticulous attention to detail to Sambanis Family Law. Working closely with Marie Sambanis, she plays an important role in supporting the day-to-day operations of the practice, assisting clients and helping the legal team manage matters efficiently. Known for her reliability, professionalism and approachable manner, Deb is committed to ensuring clients feel welcomed and supported. She is also a Commissioner for Declarations, providing an additional service to clients where required.
Outside of work, Deb has a keen interest in fashion and enjoys visiting North Stradbroke Island to unwind. She treasures time spent with friends.
Areas of Focus
- Client liaison and support
- Office management and administration
- Estate administration support
- Wills and estate planning administration
- Court and legal document preparation
- Practice management and client care
Qualifications
- Commissioner for Declarations
client testimonials
what clients are saying about our team
