Find Trusted De facto Relationship Lawyers
near Melbourne VIC

Average rating

4.8
4.82 starsStarStarStarStar

Let us find you top rated lawyers in

Read thousands of verified recommendations from actual clients
Read thousands of verified recommendations from actual clients
See each lawyer's specialisation to find the right one for you
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 De facto Relationship Lawyers near Melbourne VIC based on ratings and reviews

Average rating of De facto Relationship Lawyers near Melbourne VIC

4.8
4.82 stars from 870 recommendationsStarStarStarStar

based on 870 client reviews

De facto Relationship Lawyers in Melbourne VIC

Glezer Lanteri and Associates

Glezer Lanteri and Associates

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140012..

Glezer Lanteri Family Lawyers in Melbourne bring over 90 years’ combined experience, including two Accredited Family Law Specialists and an Independent Children’s Lawyer. We provide expert, compassionate advice on divorce, property settlements, parenting, financial agreements, and family violence. We support clients through all family law and de facto matters, including same-sex relationships, child support, superannuation, and international cases. Our team offers a comfortable environment, prioritising early, cost-effective resolutions. Clients also access a network of specialists in psychology, finance, conveyancing, and wills. Contact us for trusted, practical family law support tailored to your needs.

Our Team

Homer Muntz from Glezer Lanteri and AssociatesAnnie Geller from Glezer Lanteri and AssociatesPhoebe Haverford from Glezer Lanteri and AssociatesApril Harris from Glezer Lanteri and Associates
Nicholes Family Lawyers

Nicholes Family Lawyers

Nicholes Family Lawyers has 4.5 stars from 65 recommendations4.5
65 ratings
Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140087..

Nicholes Family Lawyers, with offices in Melbourne CBD and Geelong, specialise in family, divorce, and children’s law, aiming for the best outcomes for your family. Experienced in both domestic and international cases, they handle simple to complex disputes in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. Prioritising alternative dispute resolution, many lawyers are qualified in collaborative law. Their expertise covers complex property, children’s matters, LGBTIQA+ issues, surrogacy, family violence, and international family law. They provide compassionate, comprehensive support, working with psychologists, counsellors, and financial advisers to ensure holistic care while avoiding court where possible.

Our Team

Newman Edison from Nicholes Family LawyersMaggie Jeffords from Nicholes Family LawyersKevin Holt from Nicholes Family LawyersRosa Halpert from Nicholes Family LawyersWesley Conrad from Nicholes Family LawyersNelson Nahasapeemapetilon from Nicholes Family LawyersElaine Boyle from Nicholes Family LawyersFry Kroker from Nicholes Family LawyersBart Geller from Nicholes Family LawyersJeff Bratton from Nicholes Family LawyersMarge Tribbiani from Nicholes Family LawyersLindsay Parcell from Nicholes Family LawyersJim Wyatt from Nicholes Family Lawyers
Galbally and O'Bryan

Galbally and O'Bryan

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
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
Costanzo Lawyers

Costanzo Lawyers

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC

Costanzo Lawyers, established in 1995 by Frank Costanzo, serves Lalor and nearby areas with professional, efficient, and confidential legal services. With offices in Doncaster East, Melbourne CBD, and Coburg, they offer clear, practical family law advice on de facto relationships, property settlements, prenups, divorces, and restraining orders. They also provide personal injury support, including WorkCover, TAC, public liability, and TPD claims. Their wills and estates team assists with estate planning, will disputes, powers of attorney, probate, aged care, and retirement village advice. Experience personalised, ethical legal support tailored to your needs.

Our Team

Lucille Simpson from Costanzo LawyersFry Perkins from Costanzo Lawyers
KHQ Lawyers

KHQ Lawyers

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140051..

KHQ Lawyers is an award-winning boutique top-tier law firm combining personalised, responsive service with expert legal talent. Founded in 2006 by two lawyers who sought to modernise client relationships, KHQ offers flexibility, trust and top-tier expertise. The firm prioritises client needs, delivering clear, commercial solutions across diverse practice areas including Corporate, Property, IP, Litigation, Family Law, Tax, Technology and more. KHQ’s culture emphasises authenticity, accountability and strong client relationships, ensuring expert advice and timely, strategic outcomes for leading corporates and private clients.

Our Team

Jenna Wyatt from KHQ LawyersJanet Scott from KHQ LawyersHubert Muntz from KHQ Lawyers
Cogent Legal

Cogent Legal

Docklands, VIC
Docklands, VIC
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
Caroline Counsel Family Lawyers

Caroline Counsel Family Lawyers

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140072..

Caroline Counsel Family Lawyers is a boutique family law firm in Melbourne, specialising in divorce, property, and children's issues. We are committed to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and provide tailored advice on the best dispute resolution methods for your needs. Our clients range from individuals to companies and grandparents seeking access to their grandchildren. With exceptional lawyers and a dedicated support team, we guide you through each step, ensuring you make informed decisions. We handle court proceedings, property disputes, parenting orders, and more, offering solutions that cater to each family's unique situation. Separation can be daunting; we provide support to navigate these challenges.

Our Team

Oscar Nadir from Caroline Counsel Family LawyersBritta Conrad from Caroline Counsel Family Lawyers
RT Legal

RT Legal

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC

RT Legal, a boutique firm in Heidelberg, offers affordable, accessible legal services. Our experienced lawyers provide clear advice, practical solutions and strong representation across Family Law, Victims of Crime, Wills and Estates, Property Law and Dispute Resolution. With over 10 years of specialised expertise, we handle Family Law, Wills and Probate, Conveyancing and Victims of Crime matters. Our team has extensive court experience in the Family Court, Federal Circuit Court and Magistrates Court, ensuring premium legal support at cost-effective rates.

Our Team

Shirley Scott from RT Legal
Westwood Legal

Westwood Legal

Fitzroy, VIC
Fitzroy, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140012..

Westwood Legal is a specialist family law firm focused on tailored legal advice for your unique situation. We aim to provide practical solutions to minimise stress and costs associated with legal disputes. Our expertise covers divorces, property and financial settlements, children’s arrangements, and spousal maintenance. We assist in preparing Binding Financial Agreements and Child Support Agreements and offer pre-separation advice. For those considering relocation with children or needing intervention orders due to family violence, we provide knowledgeable support. Trust us to guide you through these challenging processes efficiently and effectively.

Our Team

Carl Bennett from Westwood Legal
Cantwell Family Lawyers

Cantwell Family Lawyers

Cantwell Family Lawyers has 4.6 stars from 21 recommendations4.6
21 ratings
North Melbourne, VIC
North Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140081..

Cantwell Family Lawyers offers specialised advice on family and relationship law. Led by Accredited Specialist Melissa Cantwell, our experienced lawyers handle financial issues, divorce, and children's matters with a focus on minimising stress. We recognise that navigating family law can be challenging, so we provide tailored strategies and top legal counsel. Our services include complex financial disputes, property settlements, financial agreements, divorce, de facto relationships, child custody and support, parenting disputes, spousal maintenance, international matters, mediation, same-sex relationship issues, and interpreter services.

Our Team

Xander Linetti from Cantwell Family Lawyers
Robert A. McHugh, Barrister and Solicitor

Robert A. McHugh, Barrister and Solicitor

West Melbourne, VIC
West Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140052..

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
GPZ Legal

GPZ Legal

Prahran, VIC
Prahran, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140046..

GPZ Legal is a team of five lawyers and eleven trained staff providing comprehensive legal assistance to over 10,000 clients. Located at Level 4, 44 Clifton Street, Prahran, the office offers disability and elevator access plus nearby council parking. The team is approachable, taking time to understand each client’s unique situation. They specialise in personal injury, WorkCover, TAC, superannuation, public liability, wills and estates, family law, property law, conveyancing, and criminal law, delivering personalised advice and effective representation.

Our Team

Shirley Pelton from GPZ LegalPierce Green from GPZ LegalTara Benes from GPZ LegalPhoebe Wiggum from GPZ Legal
Katsaros & Associates

Katsaros & Associates

Katsaros & Associates has 4.9 stars from 366 recommendations4.9
366 ratings
Brunswick, VIC
Brunswick, VIC
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
Diamonds Solicitors & Attorneys

Diamonds Solicitors & Attorneys

St Kilda, VIC
St Kilda, VIC

Diamonds Solicitors & Attorneys, established in 1980 by Stephen Diamond, provide expert, friendly, and affordable legal services across the Gold Coast, Brisbane, Northern Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. Stephen is admitted to the High and Federal Courts of Australia. The boutique firm in Nobby Beach specialises in family law, conveyancing, wills and estates, drink driving offences, commercial law, insolvency, and litigation. Committed to personalised service and positive outcomes, they offer expert advice with a practical understanding of commercial realities. Contact Diamonds Solicitors for timely, cost-effective legal solutions tailored to your needs.

Our Team

Krusty Lemon from Diamonds Solicitors & Attorneys
Testart Family Lawyers

Testart Family Lawyers

Toorak, VIC
Toorak, VIC

Testart Family Lawyers Melbourne offer expert, compassionate family law services focused on resolving disputes through mediation and negotiation to keep matters out of court. When court is necessary, their experienced team provides strong representation. They handle cases with integrity, guiding clients through emotionally difficult times with care and holistic advice. Their expertise covers divorce, separation, de facto couples, parenting and custody, financial agreements, property settlement, family violence, intervention orders, and same-sex divorce. Trust them for fair, legally sound outcomes.

Our Team

Maggie Rosenberg from Testart Family LawyersGeorge Winger from Testart Family LawyersToby Al-Jamil from Testart Family Lawyers
<123>

Frequently Asked Questions

What are my property rights in a de facto relationship?
In a de facto relationship, you generally have similar property rights to married couples once you meet certain conditions. You must have lived together for at least two years on a genuine domestic basis, or qualify earlier if you have a child together or made substantial contributions to the relationship. Since 1 March 2009, de facto partners can apply to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia for property orders in the same way as married couples. However, you must apply within two years of the relationship breaking down, though the court may grant permission to apply outside this timeframe in certain circumstances. The court considers factors including the duration of your relationship, financial interdependence, property ownership, and your commitment to a shared life when determining property rights. For advice specific to your situation in Melbourne, consider contacting a de facto relationship lawyer through LawConnect.
What evidence do I need to prove a de facto relationship?
To prove a de facto relationship, you need to demonstrate that you and your former partner lived together on a genuine domestic basis. Courts typically assess nine statutory factors to determine this, including the length of the relationship, whether you lived together, financial dependence, property ownership, mutual commitment, care of children, and the public nature of the relationship. Key evidence you can gather includes lease agreements or mortgage documents showing joint residence, joint bank statements and shared financial records, utility bills in both names, photographs together, statutory declarations from witnesses who knew you as a couple, and documentation of any children born to the relationship. The strength of your case depends on how comprehensively you can demonstrate these factors across the relationship's duration. If you're pursuing property settlement or maintenance in Melbourne, you have two years from separation to apply to the court. Given the complexity of establishing de facto status and the strict deadlines involved, it's advisable to seek legal advice promptly. LawConnect can connect you with experienced de facto relationship lawyers in Victoria who can assess your specific circumstances and guide you through the process.
What is a binding financial agreement for a de facto couple?
A binding financial agreement for a de facto couple is a legally enforceable contract that allows you to formalise arrangements about finances and property outside of court. If properly prepared and entered into, it can prevent either party from taking court proceedings about financial or property matters. To be binding, the agreement must meet specific legal requirements. All parties must sign it, and before signing, each party must receive independent legal advice about the agreement's effect, advantages and disadvantages. Each party must also obtain a signed certificate from their lawyer confirming they received this advice and provide it to the other party. You can enter into such an agreement before, during, or after a de facto relationship ends. The agreement can cover all aspects of your finances and property, or just specific issues like maintenance. However, courts can set aside these agreements in certain circumstances, such as fraud, lack of clarity, or hardship affecting a child's welfare. Given the complexity of these agreements, it is essential to seek independent legal advice before entering into one.
What is the time limit for a de facto property settlement in Melbourne?
You must apply for a de facto property settlement within two years of your relationship breaking down. After this two-year deadline has passed, you can still apply but you will need to obtain the Court's permission. The Court may grant permission if it is satisfied that hardship would be caused to you or a child if permission were not granted, or in certain circumstances involving maintenance claims and financial hardship. Given the strict time limits involved, it is important to seek legal advice promptly if you are considering a property settlement claim. There are 40 de facto relationship lawyers available through LawConnect who can advise you on your specific situation and help ensure you meet all necessary deadlines.
Do de facto couples have the same rights as married couples in Melbourne?
De facto couples in Victoria have nearly the same property, superannuation and parenting rights as married couples under Australian federal family law. You generally qualify for these rights after living together for two years, or sooner if you have a child together or have made substantial contributions to the relationship. However, there are important differences: de facto couples must apply for financial orders within two years of separation, whereas married couples have a longer timeframe. Additionally, you must meet specific gateway criteria to access the court system. If your de facto relationship has ended, you should seek legal advice promptly to understand your rights and meet critical deadlines.

Find De facto Relationship Lawyers in Capital Cities

De facto Relationship Lawyers in SydneyDe facto Relationship Lawyers in PerthDe facto Relationship Lawyers in MelbourneDe facto Relationship Lawyers in HobartDe facto Relationship Lawyers in DarwinDe facto Relationship Lawyers in CanberraDe facto Relationship Lawyers in BrisbaneDe facto Relationship Lawyers in Adelaide

Find trusted lawyers