Find Trusted Business Trust Lawyers
near Melbourne VIC

Average rating

4.8
4.85 starsStarStarStarStar

Let us find you top rated lawyers in

Read thousands of verified recommendations from actual clients
See each lawyer's specialisation to find the right one for you

How LawConnect works

1
LawConnect helps you create a brief for your legal needs
2
Shortlist suitable lawyers and read client reviews
3
Get a proposal from your lawyers of choice

Browse trusted Business Trust Lawyers near Melbourne VIC based on ratings and reviews

Average rating of Business Trust Lawyers near Melbourne VIC

4.8
4.85 stars from 1208 recommendationsStarStarStarStar

based on 1208 client reviews

Business Trust Lawyers in Melbourne VIC

Forty Four Degrees

Forty Four Degrees offers personalised legal services from offices in Melbourne CBD and Ballarat, ensuring convenient in-person or remote consultations. We focus on ethical, transparent, and cost-effective solutions, promoting diversity and opposing discrimination. Our expertise covers civil litigation, commercial, tax, employment, insolvency, regulatory investigations, property, family, criminal law, and wills and estates. Committed to social justice, environmental responsibility, and staff well-being, we provide innovative, reliable legal support tailored to your needs.

Our Team

Rosa Van Houten from Forty Four Degrees Jenna Martin from Forty Four Degrees Hermes Budd from Forty Four Degrees
Harris Carlson Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140050..

Harris Carlson Lawyers is a boutique commercial law firm specialising in Commercial Law, Property, Insolvency, and Litigation. We provide tailored, high-quality legal services to support our clients' commercial success. Our firm offers intelligent, flexible solutions delivered efficiently, serving a diverse client base including corporations, government bodies, small businesses, and individuals. Practice areas include Commercial Law, Property and Development, Bankruptcy and Insolvency, Commercial Litigation, Wills and Estates, Employment Law, Conveyancing, Franchising, Mergers & Acquisitions, and Corporate and Financial Markets.

Our Team

Joey Seinfeld from Harris Carlson LawyersKenneth Halpert from Harris Carlson LawyersDean Martin from Harris Carlson Lawyers
Galbally and O'Bryan
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140077..

Galbally & O’Bryan has practised law since 1935, founded by John Galbally, a social reformer and QC. Joined by his brother Frank and Peter O’Bryan, the firm gained renown in criminal law, personal injury, and social justice. Now led by Paul Galbally and Peter Ward, specialists with 40+ years’ experience, the firm remains committed to ethical, expert legal services and access to justice. Areas include criminal law, injury compensation, family law, commercial litigation, wills & estates, property and business law, plus ASIC and royal commission investigations.

Our Team

Leslie Buffay from Galbally and O'BryanMichael Linetti from Galbally and O'BryanCosmo Buffay from Galbally and O'Bryan
Mulcahy and Co Legal
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140039..

Mulcahy & Co, founded in 1998 by Jamie and Chris Mulcahy, offers personalised accounting, agribusiness, bookkeeping, taxation, financial planning, legal, loans, finance, and marketing services. Serving small-medium businesses, farmers, wage earners, and retirees, their expert team delivers tailored solutions to maximise opportunities and minimise risks. Services include succession planning, insurance, property law, estate planning, and vehicle finance. Mulcahy & Co focuses on reliability, accessibility, responsiveness, and providing a distinct advantage through integrated expert support and their FS360 program, helping clients achieve financial security.

Our Team

Creed Ludgate from Mulcahy and Co Legal Phyllis Meagle from Mulcahy and Co Legal Johnny Flanders from Mulcahy and Co Legal
Nevile and Co.
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140043..

Nevile & Co. is a boutique legal firm in Melbourne’s CBD with over 50 years’ experience. We offer expert advice in commercial law, property and conveyancing, migration, and litigation. Understanding your unique circumstances, we provide personalised service and competitive fees. Our goal is lasting relationships—we want to be “your lawyer” through business agreements, real estate, wills, and more. Serving clients across Australia and internationally, we speak multiple languages including Mandarin, Cantonese, Indonesian, Vietnamese, and Hindi. Contact us today to see how we can help.

Our Team

Cosmo Halpert from Nevile and Co. Monica Jeffords from Nevile and Co. Liz Edison from Nevile and Co.
RND Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140005..

RND Lawyers, founded in 1989 and based in East Melbourne, is a boutique commercial legal and consultancy firm serving small to large enterprises, individuals, families, and corporates locally and internationally. Directors Chris Dolkas and Antonios Roussos offer expert advice in business, commercial, property, and financial matters. Services include business and corporate law, property and conveyancing, retail leasing, building and construction, dispute resolution, wills and estates, intellectual property, equity and trusts, banking and finance, commercial agreements, acquisitions, restructures, succession planning, and shareholder agreements.

Our Team

Abed Van Houten from RND LawyersFry Parcell from RND LawyersJoey Bratton from RND Lawyers
HFK Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140099..

HFK Lawyers is a boutique law firm in Sydney with a 90-year legacy, initially founded as Maunder & Jeffrey Solicitors. Known for our commitment to legal excellence since the 1960s, we prioritise innovation in modern legal practices while honouring our history. Our dedicated team offers fresh perspectives and strategies to tackle today's legal challenges, ensuring exceptional service to our clients. We specialise in commercial transactions, litigation, real estate, oil and renewables, startups, building and construction, defamation, childcare services, insolvency, and wills and estates. Join us as we leverage decades of expertise and technology to advance our clients' interests.

Our Team

Moira Burns from HFK LawyersBart Lehane from HFK LawyersGeorge Harris from HFK Lawyers
Hailes Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140006..

Hailes Lawyers, based in Southbank, Melbourne, specialise in commercial and property law. Our experienced team advises local and international companies, property investors, developers, and commercial landlords. We handle retail and commercial leasing for landlords and tenants, ensuring compliance with legislation. Our property development services cover subdivisions, apartments, offices, and shopping centres for various clients, including multinational corporations. We also manage conveyancing for residential and commercial transactions and offer comprehensive commercial and corporate law advice across industries.

Our Team

Jack Schrute from Hailes LawyersFry Barnes from Hailes LawyersRalph Malone from Hailes Lawyers
Oakhill Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140016..

Oakhill Lawyers is your local law firm, dedicated to accessibility and client peace of mind. Whether you need a will, powers of attorney, or assistance in property law, business law, or estate planning, we offer extensive experience and a strong work ethic. Founded by Clare Agostinelli in 2015, who has practised law since 2007, Oakhill Lawyers is named after Clare's childhood area in Melbourne. We aim to build trusted relationships, being available after hours or on weekends. Our services include advice on estate planning, deceased estates, debt recovery, and employment law. We partner with specialised firms for comprehensive legal support.

Our Team

Homer Pelton from Oakhill Lawyers
Alderuccio Solicitors
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140048..

Alderuccio Advisory helps business owners achieve growth, freedom, and success with over 40 years of experience. We provide personalised mentoring, business growth advice, and franchising consultancy tailored to each client’s unique needs. Our practical, accountability-focused approach supports entrepreneurs in scaling operations, improving leadership, and balancing work-life demands. Whether expanding, refining operations, or exploring franchising, we offer expert guidance to unlock your business’s full potential and create sustainable success. Chat with us today.

Our Team

Faith Jordan from Alderuccio Solicitors
Xary Lawyers

Welcome to XARY, where we combine top-notch service and leading technology for the best client outcomes. Since our founding, our advisors have strived to be "Difference Makers," thoroughly examining client positions to provide tailored advice based on ten years of experience. Our committed teams develop effective strategies that respect cultural aspects and regional business customs, ensuring they integrate with clients' operations. We empower businesses nationally and globally, offering flexible solutions that fit diverse projects and budgets. Our services include comprehensive advisory, accounting, legal, and technology solutions aimed at driving transformation and creating value in the digital age.

Our Team

Tahani Van Houten from Xary Lawyers Nelson Nadir from Xary Lawyers
Cogent Legal
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140053..

Cogent Legal offers tailored advice for individuals and businesses across various legal areas. Frustrated with slow, costly, and unclear legal service? Try a more cogent approach. We cover Family Law, Construction and Building Law, Commercial, Employment and Franchise Law, Property, Leasing & Conveyancing, Intellectual Property & Brand Protection, and Litigation and Debt Recovery. If we’re not the right fit, we’ll recommend someone who is. Get clear, cost-effective legal support designed around your needs.

Our Team

Ralph Summers from Cogent Legal Krusty Martin from Cogent Legal Krusty Buffay from Cogent Legal
twenty20 legal

At twenty20legal, our vision is straightforward: clear advice and costs, making law easier for you. We help you navigate your goals without the burden of billable hours. Our expert advice simplifies legal matters, allowing you to focus on your business. We prioritise understanding your needs to find the right solutions for your success. Explore our services in Commercial Law & Advisory, Corporate Regulatory, Health & Pharmaceuticals, Property Law & Conveyancing, and Tax, Duties & Superannuation. Let us guide you on your legal journey and achieve your objectives together.

Our Team

Xander Kramer from twenty20 legalTara Tribbiani from twenty20 legalLenny Winger from twenty20 legal
Kotak Legal

Kotak Legal is a premier law firm known for precision, integrity, and client-focused service. Our team of highly qualified lawyers has extensive experience in diverse legal fields, allowing us to tackle complex legal challenges efficiently. We have a solid reputation for achieving successful outcomes for our clients, whether in immigration law for those relocating to Australia or seamless property conveyancing. Our business law services include contract drafting and dispute resolution, tailored to client needs. We handle family law matters with care, including divorce and custody, and offer guidance on wills and power of attorney. Our litigation team fiercely advocates for clients in disputes, ensuring superior service and results.

Our Team

Oz Traeger from Kotak Legal
Schembri + McCluskys

Schembri + McCluskys is a leading Melbourne law firm with over 60 years' experience serving individuals, families, and businesses. With a skilled team across three offices, we provide cost-effective, professional, and outcome-focused legal support. Originating as Schembri & Co in 2003, we have expanded through mergers with notable firms including O’Brien & Galante Lawyers and MSA Law. The merger of Schembri & Co and McCluskys in 2022 enhanced our service capability. Our extensive services cover Family Law, Wills & Estates, Property Law, Commercial Law, Civil Litigation, Criminal Law, Victims of Crime, and Personal Injury, ensuring we're always available to meet client needs.

Our Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an asset protection trust and how does it work in Melbourne?
An asset protection trust is a legal structure, typically a discretionary family trust, designed to safeguard your assets from creditors, lawsuits, and unforeseen claims. It works by transferring assets into the trust, where they're legally controlled by a trustee rather than held in your personal name. This separation can protect those assets from business disputes and personal liabilities. In Melbourne and Victoria, asset protection trusts operate under state trust legislation combined with federal tax and insolvency laws. For the structure to be effective, the trust must be established early, operated according to regulatory guidelines, and meet tax obligations. Assets transferred into a trust within four years of bankruptcy may be unwound by courts, so establishing trusts well in advance is important. You may also benefit from income splitting opportunities with discretionary trusts. For advice tailored to your specific situation, consider consulting a business trust lawyer in Melbourne through LawConnect.
What is a discretionary trust and how is it taxed?
A discretionary trust is a structure where a trustee holds assets for the benefit of beneficiaries, with the trustee having discretion over how income and capital are distributed. They're commonly used by business owners and families to protect assets and manage wealth. For taxation purposes, discretionary trusts are taxed at the trust level on income retained within the trust. A key advantage has been income splitting, where trustees can distribute income to beneficiaries on lower marginal tax rates, potentially reducing overall family tax. However, from 1 July 2028, new legislation will impose a 30 per cent minimum tax rate on taxable income retained in or distributed from discretionary trusts, which will significantly change this tax planning approach. If you need specific advice about how discretionary trusts apply to your circumstances in Melbourne, consider consulting with a business trust lawyer who can review your situation and explain the implications for your particular needs.
Can I put my house in a trust to protect it?
Yes, you can put your house in a trust to protect it, though the protection works differently than many people expect. When property is held in a trust, the trustee legally owns it, which can shield assets from creditors and legal claims against individual beneficiaries. This is one of the key asset protection benefits. However, there are important considerations for Melbourne property owners. Transferring real estate into a trust may trigger stamp duty based on the property's market value, with rates varying by state. You'll also face ongoing costs including legal, accounting, and compliance fees. Additionally, once the property is in the trust, you lose direct control over it as the trustee manages it according to the trust deed. For Victoria-specific implications and to understand whether a trust suits your circumstances, it's advisable to consult with a business trust lawyer in Melbourne who can review your situation and explain the tax, legal, and financial implications for your particular needs.
Are offshore asset protection trusts legal in Melbourne?
Offshore asset protection trusts are legal in Australia, including Melbourne, but they operate within a complex regulatory framework. Australian trust law combines state legislation with federal tax and insolvency rules that govern how these structures function. However, establishing an offshore trust involves additional considerations compared to domestic trusts, including potential tax implications and compliance requirements under Australian law. The effectiveness of an offshore trust for asset protection depends on various factors, including when it was established, how it operates, and whether it complies with tax obligations. Given the complexity and the recent significant changes to trust taxation in Australia, you should consult with a business trust lawyer in Melbourne who can assess your specific circumstances and advise whether an offshore structure is appropriate for your situation.
How are trusts taxed in Melbourne?
Trusts in Melbourne are taxed based on how income is distributed and retained. Discretionary trusts, the most common type used by business owners, can facilitate income splitting by distributing income to beneficiaries on lower tax rates, potentially reducing overall family tax. However, from 1 July 2028, a significant change takes effect: taxable income retained in or distributed from a discretionary trust will face a minimum 30 per cent tax rate, targeting arrangements that currently use income splitting to minimise tax. The trustee must lodge tax returns and pay tax on undistributed income. Capital gains tax treatment and other tax implications depend on the trust type and your specific circumstances. Given the complexity and recent legislative changes, consulting a business trust lawyer in Melbourne is advisable to ensure your trust structure remains tax-efficient and compliant.

Find trusted lawyers