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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

Jessop & Komesaroff Lawyers

Jessop & Komesaroff offers honest, professional legal services with high ethical standards and a no-nonsense approach. Established in 1979, the Melbourne-based boutique firm specialises in Small Business, Commercial & Property Law, Wills & Estates, and Family Law. Their experienced lawyers provide practical, clear advice aimed at the best commercial outcomes, serving individuals, families, businesses and high net worth clients. Known for personalised attention and holistic service, they handle Commercial Law, Civil Litigation, Conveyancing, Powers of Attorney, Criminal Law and more, maintaining a referral-based, loyal client base.

Our Team

Apu Mendoza from Jessop & Komesaroff LawyersOscar Bouvier from Jessop & Komesaroff LawyersPam Summers from Jessop & Komesaroff Lawyers
Savage & Co
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140074..

Savage & Co is a dedicated Melbourne-based law firm led by solicitor Michelle Savage, offering competitive and accessible legal services across various areas. We assist clients with Deceased Estate Matters, Estate Planning (Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney), Property transactions, Family Law (amicable separations, Binding Financial Agreements), Commercial matters, Employment Law (contracts, bullying, unfair dismissals), Debt Recovery, and VCAT Hearings. Michelle has a unique background as a former teacher and is committed to building strong client relationships to achieve the best outcomes. Meetings can be arranged in-office or at convenient locations for personalised support.

Our Team

Leela Wong from Savage & Co
Rennick and Gaynor
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140039..

Rennick & Gaynor, established in 1919, offers high-quality, practical legal advice in a personal and cost-effective manner across Melbourne and Rural Victoria, including Geelong and the Surf Coast. We prioritise client relationships, delivering clear business solutions and addressing legal matters in business and private life. Our services include Property Law & Conveyancing, Wills & Estates, Corporate & Commercial Law, Litigation & Dispute Resolution, and Compulsory Land Acquisition. Committed to continuous improvement, we provide expert, client-focused advice as a trusted alternative to city firms.

Our Team

Cosmo Peralta from Rennick and GaynorDavid Jeffords from Rennick and GaynorTerry Nadir from Rennick and Gaynor
Adami Duque Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140062..

Adami Duque Lawyers has served the Coburg community for over 60 years, offering local knowledge and compassionate legal support. We assist with relationship breakdowns, property settlements, wills, estate planning, probate, family law, mortgages, business law, and litigation. Our small, multicultural team provides personalised, timely service in a friendly, family atmosphere. Whether you're buying property, planning your estate, or facing court, we offer expert guidance. Contact us for a consultation with experienced solicitors who care about your best interests.

Our Team

Tom Bennett from Adami Duque LawyersDean Holt from Adami Duque Lawyers
Asprey Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140056..

Asprey Lawyers, founded in 2014 by Pratima and Hamish Prabhu, blends senior city firm expertise with a client-focused approach. We serve individuals, families, and businesses with experienced, cost-effective legal solutions tailored to your needs. Committed to keeping you informed and flexible meeting times, we prioritise high-value over high-cost services. Our expertise spans commercial law, property law, litigation, criminal law, family law, conveyancing, wills & estates, and debt recovery. Asprey Lawyers aims to exceed expectations with professionalism and personalised care.

Our Team

Liz Shellstrop from Asprey LawyersBritta Scott from Asprey Lawyers
Scanlan Carroll - Lawyers for Business People

Scanlan Carroll offers more than legal services; we provide peace of mind by focusing on your objectives and nurturing lifelong partnerships. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, our high-level services are tailored to your individual needs. With over 100 years of collective legal experience, our team relates to your situation, offering personal attention across various legal areas. We pride ourselves on being efficient, transparent, and communicative. Our services include Leasing, Property Law, Dispute Resolution, Probate Litigation, Family Law, Estate Planning, Commercial Law, Probate Administration, and Employment Law. Partner with us for confidence in business and beyond.

Our Team

Leslie Bouvier from Scanlan Carroll - Lawyers for Business PeopleJeff Peralta from Scanlan Carroll - Lawyers for Business PeopleGob Lehane from Scanlan Carroll - Lawyers for Business People
Hughes Legal
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140035..

Hughes Legal, based in Essendon since 1983, offers trusted, practical legal advice with a focus on family, business, and property law. We assist with separation, divorce, parenting, contracts, transactions, conveyancing, wills, power of attorney, debt recovery, and estate administration. Our experienced team provides personalised, confidential service tailored to local needs. We support individuals, families, and businesses, ensuring efficient, cost-effective solutions. Hughes Legal also connects clients to financial experts and barristers, delivering comprehensive legal and commercial advice you can rely on.

Our Team

Pam Farnsworth from Hughes LegalDean Jenkins from Hughes LegalMilhouse Seinfeld from Hughes Legal
BST Consultants and Lawyers

BST Consultants and Lawyers, led by Barry Stark, provides comprehensive legal services in commercial, business, and property law. Renowned for their accessibility and responsiveness, they offer practical advice at competitive prices, with flexible pricing options. The firm builds lasting client relationships and travels to meet clients, enhancing personal engagement. Expertise spans general commercial issues to complex property transactions, including company advice and contract drafting. They conduct thorough due diligence on property acquisitions and adeptly navigate commercial leasing for landlords and tenants. During COVID-19, they advised on the Leasing Code and specialise in childcare and franchising matters. BST Consultants is committed to strategic, high-quality legal counsel for successful outcomes.

Our Team

Liz Wong from BST Consultants and Lawyers
RKL Lawyers and Consultants

Zelma Rudstein, Principal of RKL since 1994, is known for client-focused legal solutions. RKL values trust, offering advice in Property Law & Conveyancing, including leases, disputes, zoning, and valuations. Their Dispute Resolution & Litigation services cover negotiation, arbitration, family, criminal, employment, and administrative law. Wills & Estates include planning, probate, and estate litigation. Corporate & Commercial services cover leasing, agreements, insolvency, and IP. Family Law addresses children’s issues, relationships, domestic violence, and mediation. Employment Law covers contracts, discrimination, bullying, IP, and workplace safety.

Our Team

Pam Bennett from RKL Lawyers and ConsultantsLeela Vance from RKL Lawyers and ConsultantsKrusty Anagonye from RKL Lawyers and Consultants
BTK Legal
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140048..

Boyle Telfer & Kooblal, established from roots dating back to 1896, is a respected legal firm with a strong focus on property law and support for small businesses. Originating from Fowler & Hick and later merging with Boyle & Telfer in 1998, the firm has expanded its services to include property transactions, leases, wills, probate, trusts, taxation and litigation. With over a century of combined experience, Boyle Telfer & Kooblal offers practical, tailored legal advice and effective representation, upholding a tradition of professionalism and client dedication.

Our Team

Ned Beesly from BTK LegalTara Linetti from BTK Legal
McManus and Co Lawyers

McManus & Co Lawyers has put clients first since 1975, offering trusted, quality legal services. With over 50 years’ experience, we're accredited specialists in wills and estates, plus experts in conveyancing. Many clients’ families have stayed with us for generations. Our passionate, collaborative team delivers the best outcomes, handling everything from wills, powers of attorney and estate plans to succession planning for trusts, companies and SMSFs. We also assist with estate administration and property law, ensuring smooth, stress-free conveyancing. Servicing Melbourne and Queenscliff, we’re here to support you with expert legal care.

Our Team

Pam Funke from McManus and Co LawyersNelson Buffay from McManus and Co LawyersWesley Knope from McManus and Co LawyersPatty Rose from McManus and Co Lawyers
Avesta Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140059..

Avesta Lawyers is your trusted ally for legal matters, offering personalised and strategic solutions across Family Law, Commercial Law, Criminal Law, and Conveyancing. Led by Suzan, a skilled advocate with a pragmatic approach, we ensure clients are informed and understand the legal process. Suzan, a member of the Law Institute of Victoria and fluent in English and Persian, prioritises effective communication. Our services include Family Law, Commercial Law, Criminal Law, Conveyancing, Powers of Attorney, and Wills & Probates. Experience favourable outcomes with timely communication and thorough preparation. Choose Avesta for the quality service you deserve!

Our Team

Marge Mendoza from Avesta Lawyers
K.P Abbott and Co
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140073..

K.P. Abbott & Co., established in 1973 in Glen Iris, Melbourne, is a general legal practice with over 45 years of experience. Led by Principal Solicitor Kevin Abbott, the firm specialises in Property Law, Conveyancing, Wills and Estates, Estate Planning, Succession Law, Family Law (including Binding Financial Agreements and Divorce), and Commercial Law. The experienced team also offers expert assistance with probate, deceased estates, and planning for your family’s future.

Our Team

Scruffy Donaghy from K.P Abbott and Co
RS Chase Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140059..

RS Chase Lawyers in Melbourne offer expert legal services across criminal, commercial, property, family, motor traffic, wills, probate, and local government law. Our skilled team works collaboratively to deliver quality, cost-effective advice with integrity and regular communication. We prioritise building strong client relationships for long-term success, not just courtroom victories. Whether it’s complex litigation or straightforward cases, RS Chase is committed to defending your rights and achieving the best outcomes with personalised, ethical representation tailored to your needs.

Our Team

Stanley Santiago from RS Chase Lawyers
Rickards Legal
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140010..

Rickards Legal, established in 1983, is a respected firm known for providing practical legal advice tailored to clients' needs. As one of the largest practices locally, we focus on delivering answers, solutions and outcomes across a broad range of services, from simple transactions to complex cases. Our expertise includes Litigation and Dispute Resolution, Conveyancing, Property Law and Development, Family Law, Elder Law and Aged Care, Wills and Deceased Estates, and Commercial Leasing and Lease Disputes. We pride ourselves on dedication and personalised service.

Our Team

Ned Chase from Rickards LegalAndy Hudson from Rickards Legal

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.

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