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Browse trusted Adoption Lawyers near Melbourne VIC based on ratings and reviews

Average rating of Adoption Lawyers near Melbourne VIC

4.8
4.85 stars from 4975 recommendationsStarStarStarStar

based on 4975 client reviews

Adoption Lawyers in Melbourne VIC

Goldsmiths Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140010..

Goldsmiths Lawyers has been a staple of Melbourne's legal scene for over sixty years, known for its client-first approach and strong client relationships. We help clients navigate complex legal matters with care and professionalism, offering services like commercial law, family law, dispute resolution, wills, and estate planning. Our experienced team is dedicated to exceeding client expectations through clear communication and tailored legal services. We take pride in our reputation for providing effective advice and maintaining trust with clients, often spanning generations. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us.

Our Team

Gob Pelton from Goldsmiths LawyersTerry Geller from Goldsmiths LawyersSeymour Bratton from Goldsmiths Lawyers
Robert A. McHugh, Barrister and Solicitor

Robert A. McHugh, Barrister and Solicitor, boasts a 40-year legacy in family law, offering distinguished legal excellence and client-focused service. We deliver clear, reliable legal advice, guiding clients through family law complexities with expertise. Our personalised approach matches clients' unique circumstances, promoting efficient case management and favourable settlements through skilled negotiation to minimise court proceedings, ensuring cost-effective solutions and reducing emotional strain. Our knowledge spans property arrangements, child-related matters, divorce, and de facto relationships. We advocate for alternative dispute resolution to achieve amicable outcomes, committed to meticulous detail and our clients' best interests.

Our Team

Waylon Schitt from Robert A. McHugh, Barrister and Solicitor
Matthies Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140007..

Matthies Lawyers is a boutique practice in South Yarra, specialising in Family Law and Wills and Estates. With extensive experience in these fields and Dispute Resolution, we focus on protecting our clients’ relationships, families, and wealth. We prefer resolving matters through negotiation or mediation but are well-equipped to handle significant trials if needed. Our services include Family & Divorce Law, Wills & Estates, Property Conveyancing, Will Disputes, Animal Law, and Probate. Trust us to provide expert legal support tailored to your unique needs.

Our Team

Shirley Swanson from Matthies LawyersJerry Jeffords from Matthies Lawyers
Katsaros & Associates
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140070..

Katsaros & Associates focuses on professionalism and quality, offering expert advice tailored to individual circumstances. We empower clients to make informed decisions through our consulting and coaching services, always striving to exceed expectations. Our commitment to professionalism, quality, and efficiency fosters trust and creates lasting relationships grounded in respect and integrity. Our ultimate aim is to provide value and support, enabling clients to achieve their goals. We also specialise in various visa categories, including Skilled Independent Visa 189, Partner Visas, and Tourist Visas, and provide guidance on complex migration and family law matters, including family violence provisions.

Our Team

Ben Lemon from Katsaros & AssociatesMonica Nadir from Katsaros & AssociatesDean Bluth from Katsaros & Associates
Makdesi & Associates
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140023..

Makdesi And Associates Lawyers offer experienced guidance in various legal matters such as estate planning, probate, wills, business, and property law. We focus on achieving your desired results efficiently and cost-effectively, fostering long-lasting relationships with clients. Led by Mary Makdesi, our services include commercial law (contracts, leases, and business structuring), criminal law, family law, immigration law, and negotiations with government bodies. We also assist with powers of attorney, property conveyancing, tax matters, and estate planning, including contesting wills, executor responsibilities, and trusts. We're here to support you through life's changes.

Our Team

Oz Holt from Makdesi & AssociatesHermes Bing from Makdesi & AssociatesAlexis Simpson from Makdesi & Associates
FJR Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140033..

FJR Lawyers offers comprehensive legal support, dedicated to guiding clients through complex procedures. With our Brunswick office, we cater to various northern suburbs like Coburg and Northcote. Our services span Property Law, including sales, subdivisions, mortgages, and real estate documentation, as well as Family Law, covering child custody, separations, and prenups. We also manage AHPRA notifications, Wills & Probate, Criminal Law, Commercial Law, and Civil Litigation. Our commitment is to protect your rights, provide expert advice, and achieve the best outcomes for you, ensuring an accessible and supportive legal experience.

Our Team

Zapp Shellstrop from FJR LawyersAngela Bennett from FJR Lawyers
Melbourne Legal Chambers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140088..

Melbourne Legal is a progressive legal services firm providing expert legal and commercial advice, effective strategies, and optimal outcomes. We specialise in commercial litigation, dispute resolution, mediation, business matters, insolvency, property, wills, and family law. Our focus is on building long-term relationships with clients, ensuring we understand their needs in both business and personal affairs. We aim to deliver practical advice that empowers clients to succeed. Our services also include dispute resolution, estate planning, property conveyancing, and family law support during challenging times.

Our Team

Ron Kramer from Melbourne Legal ChambersBuster Ludgate from Melbourne Legal ChambersTerry Santiago from Melbourne Legal Chambers
TNV Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140013..

TNV Lawyers, founded by Emilia Teti, who holds a Bachelor of Law and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Melbourne, along with a Graduate Diploma in Labour Relations Law and Management, has over 20 years in personal injury law. Emilia began her career with a large insurer and spent six years at the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) as senior legal counsel. Transitioning to fight for everyday people, she became a partner at a leading compensation law firm in 2014, and was a principal lawyer at Australia’s largest personal injury firm until 2018. TNV Lawyers offers services in Family Law, Will Disputes, Superannuation claims, Public Liability, Road Accidents, and Worker’s Compensation.

Our Team

Andy Jordan from TNV Lawyers
Adrian Abrahams Family Lawyers

Adrian Abrahams Family Lawyers is a boutique firm specialising in Family Law, with over 20 years' experience in courts across Australia. We handle divorce, separation, property settlements, children and parenting matters, including complex property disputes, urgent maintenance orders, financial investigations, de-facto and same-sex issues, spousal maintenance, child support, and family violence. Our expert team aims to resolve matters quickly, fairly and cost-effectively, providing caring advice to achieve satisfactory life outcomes and landmark rulings in Family Law.

Our Team

Lenny Rodriguez from Adrian Abrahams Family LawyersNelson Parcell from Adrian Abrahams Family Lawyers
O'Hanlon Fosters Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140080..

Welcome to O’Hanlon Foster Lawyers, a premier legal firm with over 40 years of experience serving Melbourne and beyond. Led by senior solicitor Simon O’Hanlon, we offer personalised legal guidance tailored to your unique needs. Our services include preparing wills, powers of attorney, and financial documentation for property development and compliance. We cover diverse areas such as property law, family law, commercial law, and criminal law, ensuring comprehensive representation for all our clients. Located in St Kilda, we also provide flexible payment options and alternative dispute resolution strategies to help clients avoid costly court proceedings. Your interests are our priority.

Our Team

Britta Skinner from O'Hanlon Fosters Lawyers
Partners in Family Law
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140017..

Denise van Dijk is an Accredited Family Law Specialist with over 20 years’ experience. Before founding Partners in Family Law, she worked at Australia’s largest family law firm in Sydney, gaining strong litigation skills and mediation training, before moving to boutique firms in Melbourne. At Partners in Family Law, we partner with you, listening and advising based on your needs, aiming for amicable dispute resolutions while protecting your interests. We collaborate with professionals like accountants and psychologists for sensible outcomes. Our expertise covers property division, children’s arrangements, divorce, spousal maintenance, and international family law, prioritising dispute resolution over litigation.

Our Team

April Boyle from Partners in Family Law
Linton Pitt Lawyers

Linton Pitt Lawyers has provided exceptional legal services to individuals and corporate clients for over 15 years. Our boutique firm excels in debt recovery and corporate insolvency, offering expert advice on complex cases in Local, District, Supreme, and Federal Courts. Additionally, our experienced legal team advises on property law, conveyancing, employment and discrimination law, wills and estates, personal injury, and family law. We have established strong partnerships with major financial institutions, international banks, and local authorities, highlighting our commitment to achieving excellent results and prioritising customer service.

Our Team

Phoebe Martin from Linton Pitt LawyersTom Pelton from Linton Pitt LawyersBuffy Turanga from Linton Pitt Lawyers
Septimus Jones & Lee Solicitors
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140056..

For over 80 years, Septimus Jones & Lee has been a trusted advisor to property developers, businesses, and private clients. We pride ourselves on delivering quality legal services and accurate advice. Our commitment is to provide knowledgeable and effective support through experience and practicality. We assist clients with legal advice at every stage of life or business, offering realistic solutions. Our reputation for reliability, knowledge, and advocacy has established us as a well-respected law firm.

Our Team

Tartaglia Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140003..

Welcome to Tartaglia Lawyers, where we offer cost-effective legal services to individuals, families, and businesses. Our focus is on personalised support and building lasting relationships with our clients. Our services include Property Law, Family Law, Wills & Estates, and Dispute Resolution. Founded by Sam Tartaglia, who has over 40 years of experience, we pride ourselves on our strong reputation and commitment to client outcomes. Sebastian Tartaglia, a director and solicitor, brings extensive knowledge and empathy to our team. Outside of work, we enjoy community engagement and sporting activities, especially supporting the Essendon Football Club.

Our Team

Charles Wyatt from Tartaglia LawyersLisa Holt from Tartaglia Lawyers
Aloe & Co
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140085..

Aloe & Co specialise in various legal areas including Administrative & Constitutional Law, VCAT appearances, Commercial Law, Bankruptcy & Insolvency (both corporate and individual), Criminal Law, Consumer Law, Employment & Workplace Relations, Family Law, Human Rights, Personal Injury, and Property & Planning. We handle cases related to assault, bail applications, domestic violence, fraud, theft, workplace discrimination, divorce, children’s rights, guardianship, and wills. Our services also cover dispute resolution, commercial litigation, debt recovery, and property matters including conveyancing and leases. Contact us for professional legal support tailored to your needs.

Our Team

Stanley Edison from Aloe & Co

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the steps to adopt a child in Melbourne?
Child adoption in Victoria involves several key steps. You'll need to complete an assessment process to determine your suitability as adoptive parents, which includes home visits and background checks. Victoria has different types of adoptions available, including adoptions of children in the state's care and intercountry adoptions, each with specific requirements and processes. The assessment and approval process can take considerable time, and you'll need to work with authorised adoption services. Once approved, you may be matched with a child, followed by a transition period before the adoption is finalised through the courts. Support services are available for families throughout and after the adoption process. Given the complexity and individual circumstances involved, it's advisable to speak with an adoption lawyer in Melbourne who can guide you through the specific steps relevant to your situation and ensure all legal requirements are met.
How do I adopt a child from overseas in Melbourne?
Adopting a child from overseas involves working with your state or territory central authority, which manages the entire process. In Victoria, you'll typically start by making an initial enquiry, then attend education seminars run by your central authority before submitting a formal application. You may need to undergo health, police and referee checks, plus interviews with an adoption assessor. Once approved, your application goes to your chosen country for their approval. You'll then join their waiting list for a placement, which can take several years depending on the country. An adoption lawyer can guide you through the legal requirements and help ensure your application meets all necessary criteria for your particular circumstances.
Can you adopt a foster child in Melbourne?
Yes, you can adopt a foster child in Melbourne. This is known as domestic adoption and falls under what's called known-child adoption, where the adoptive parent already has an established relationship with the child through foster care. The process involves applying to the relevant Victorian authorities and obtaining an Adoption Order from the Supreme Court, which legally transfers all parenting rights and responsibilities from the child's current guardians to you. Adoption is typically a lengthy and involved process, so you may want to seek legal guidance to navigate the requirements specific to Victoria and your circumstances.
Is adult adoption legal in Melbourne?
Yes, adult adoption is legal in Victoria. In Victoria, a person aged 18 years or over can be adopted, and the adoption must be approved by the court. The person being adopted must consent to the adoption, as must their parents or guardians. Once an adoption order is made, it is a permanent legal arrangement that transfers all parental rights and responsibilities to the adoptive parents. The adopted adult then has the same legal status as a biological child of the adoptive family. If you are considering adult adoption in Melbourne, it is advisable to speak with an adoption lawyer who can guide you through the specific Victorian legal requirements and court process involved.
What are the costs involved in adopting a child in Melbourne?
Child adoption costs in Victoria vary depending on whether you're adopting domestically or from overseas. Domestic adoptions through the state authority are generally more affordable than intercountry adoptions, which can involve significant expenses for assessment fees, legal costs, travel, and overseas processing. The exact costs depend on your individual circumstances, the country involved if adopting internationally, and whether you require legal representation. To understand the specific costs applicable to your situation, you should speak with an adoption lawyer who can provide detailed advice. LawConnect has 56 adoption law firms in Melbourne and 71 nearby, with 25 offering free initial consultations to discuss your adoption journey and associated expenses.
What is the process for a step-parent to adopt a child in Melbourne?
In Victoria, a step-parent adoption involves obtaining consent from both the child's biological parent and the step-parent's spouse, then applying to the Victorian Family Court. You'll generally need to demonstrate that the adoption is in the child's best interests and meet residency requirements. The process typically includes a report from the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing and may involve assessments of your suitability as a parent. Court approval is required before the adoption can be finalised. The specific steps and timeframes can vary depending on your circumstances, including whether the other biological parent consents and any complexities in your family situation. For guidance tailored to your circumstances, consider consulting with an adoption lawyer in Melbourne who can advise you through each stage of the process.
Can a birth parent reverse an adoption in Melbourne?
In Victoria, a birth parent can apply to have an adoption order discharged, which effectively reverses the adoption. However, this is not a simple process and courts will only consider such applications in exceptional circumstances. The person seeking to discharge the adoption order must demonstrate that there are strong grounds related to the welfare and best interests of the child. Courts typically consider factors such as whether the adoption was obtained fraudulently, whether there has been a significant change in circumstances, or whether continuing the adoption would cause serious harm. The process involves making an application to the court, and you would generally need legal representation to navigate this properly. Given the complexity and the strict requirements involved, speaking with an adoption lawyer in Melbourne who understands Victorian family law would be essential to assess whether your circumstances might support such an application.

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