Find Trusted Divorce and Separation Lawyers
near Melbourne VIC

Average rating

4.8
4.84 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 Divorce and Separation Lawyers near Melbourne VIC based on ratings and reviews

Average rating of Divorce and Separation Lawyers near Melbourne VIC

4.8
4.84 stars from 6019 recommendationsStarStarStarStar

based on 6019 client reviews

Divorce and Separation Lawyers in Melbourne VIC

Eales and Mackenzie

Eales and Mackenzie

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140035..

Eales & Mackenzie, lawyers in Melbourne and Essendon, specialise in Commercial Law, Property Law, Litigation, Business Law, Family and Divorce Law. We offer flexible, outcome-focused legal advice to individuals and businesses Australia-wide and overseas. Our personalised approach ensures deep understanding and strong client relationships. Services include after-hours appointments, home visits, cost-effective fees and Asian language support. Convenient CBD and Essendon locations. We provide expert assistance in Commercial Litigation, Wills and Estates, Commercial Property, Business Law, and Family Law to achieve favourable outcomes. Contact us for advice.

Our Team

Leslie Seinfeld from Eales and MackenzieGina Fry from Eales and MackenzieDawn Hudson from Eales and Mackenzie
Canaan Lawyers

Canaan Lawyers

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140053..

Canaan Lawyers, based in Melbourne, specialises in legal services for the Chinese community. Our multilingual team offers cost-effective, high-quality legal advice tailored to Chinese clients, staying updated with legislative changes. We focus on practical solutions providing clients a commercial edge, with expertise in employment, commercial, criminal, family law, wills, and probate. Offering access to Asia-Pacific business networks, we help clients expand beyond Australia. Choose Canaan for personalised, professional legal support dedicated to achieving your goals.

Our Team

Phoebe Pelton from Canaan LawyersAngela Flanders from Canaan LawyersRupert Flenderson from Canaan Lawyers
Longton Blackwell

Longton Blackwell

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140088..

Longton Blackwell is a leading independent corporate law firm in Australia, committed to strategic, client-focused advice and tailored solutions. As one of the nation’s largest independent firms, we deliver expert legal services across various areas including Banking, Business Advisory, Litigation, Employment, Family, Immigration, Property, and Taxation Law. We prioritise diversity and inclusion, fostering a respectful, supportive workplace with strong leadership endorsing gender equality. Innovation drives our approach, using advanced tools to provide precise, effective solutions. Dedicated to pro bono work, we champion access to justice and community support.

Our Team

Oz Maroney from Longton BlackwellJoey Szyslak from Longton BlackwellLisa Muntz from Longton Blackwell
Peter Szabo Family Lawyers

Peter Szabo Family Lawyers

Melbourne, VIC
Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140049..

Peter Szabo Family Lawyers, with nearly 50 years’ experience since 1975, offers expert guidance through complex family law matters. Founded by Peter Szabo, the firm focuses on identifying key issues efficiently and providing practical solutions for clients’ long-term interests. Skilled in parenting disputes, financial proceedings, and landmark cases like Ascot Investments v Harper, the team handles nuanced matters confidently. They prioritise negotiated settlements and ongoing cooperation, plus expertise in asset protection, succession planning, and Financial Agreements. The firm also shares knowledge via presentations and publications, ensuring trusted, tailored advice.

Our Team

Nelson Winger from Peter Szabo Family Lawyers
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 LawyersRosa Halpert from Nicholes Family LawyersMaggie Jeffords from Nicholes Family LawyersWesley Conrad from Nicholes Family LawyersNelson Nahasapeemapetilon from Nicholes Family LawyersBart Geller from Nicholes Family LawyersJeff Bratton from Nicholes Family LawyersMarge Tribbiani from Nicholes Family LawyersJim Wyatt from Nicholes Family LawyersKevin Holt from Nicholes Family LawyersElaine Boyle from Nicholes Family LawyersFry Kroker from Nicholes Family LawyersLindsay Parcell 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
Webb Korfiatis Commercial

Webb Korfiatis Commercial

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

Legal services can be costly and stressful, especially during uncertain times. Our law firm focuses on affordable family law solutions compared to larger practices in Melbourne. Founded in 2013 by Jim Korfiatis, who has over 40 years of experience, we aim to deliver high-quality, accessible services. Our expertise includes Alternative Dispute Resolution, Binding Financial Agreements, Child Support, Parenting Matters, Family Violence Orders, Property Applications, and more. At Webb Korfiatis Family Law, we prioritise the best outcomes, always considering the child’s best interests and striving for equitable financial divisions. We offer professional advice tailored to your unique situation.

Our Team

Jenna Farnsworth from Webb Korfiatis CommercialLeslie Fry from Webb Korfiatis Commercial
Linda Ashley Law

Linda Ashley Law

Carlton, VIC
Carlton, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140055..

At Linda Ashley, we offer personalised attention and compassionate support to every client throughout their legal journey. Our experienced team provides comprehensive legal services across various areas, including family law, corporate law, employment law, and more. We're dedicated to protecting your rights and interests in matters such as commercial law, banking, immigration, consumer disputes, wills and estates, intellectual property, and property law. Trust us to guide you through your legal challenges with expertise and care.

Our Team

Michael Gergich from Linda Ashley Law
Kotak Legal

Kotak Legal

Docklands, VIC
Docklands, VIC

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
Asky International Lawyers

Asky International Lawyers

Asky International Lawyers has 4.8 stars from 38 recommendations4.8
38 ratings
Docklands, VIC
Docklands, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140088..

ASKY believes justice should be accessible to all, regardless of identity or financial status. Everyone deserves a chance to present their case before the law. ASKY International Lawyers, based in Docklands, Melbourne, and Hyderabad, India, offers a wide range of legal services including Family, Criminal, Civil, Property, Commercial, and Immigration Law, as well as Personal Injury claims and Wills. The firm values its diverse experience and strives to simplify legal processes for clients. ASKY lawyers focus on building sustainable relationships, ensuring clients understand their options and feel empowered to make decisions about their legal matters.

Our Team

Rosa Van Houten from Asky International LawyersRupert Pelton from Asky International LawyersBen Budd from Asky International Lawyers
Axis Lawyers

Axis Lawyers

Axis Lawyers has 5 stars from 43 recommendations5
43 ratings
Docklands, VIC
Docklands, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140057..

At Axis Lawyers, we provide legal solutions that simplify your life and prioritise a stress-free experience. Understanding the pressures of legal issues, we lift the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on what matters. Using cutting-edge technology, we enhance efficiency with secure digital document handling and advanced communication tools, ensuring fast and hassle-free services. At Axis Lawyers, we are your strategic partners in navigating legal complexities. Our services cover Property Law, Family Law (including financial agreements and parenting orders), and Commercial Law (including business transactions and lease agreements). Experience top-tier legal support without the stress.

Our Team

Jerry Benes from Axis Lawyers
ALFA Lawyers

ALFA Lawyers

ALFA Lawyers has 5 stars from 14 recommendations5
14 ratings
South Melbourne, VIC
South Melbourne, VIC
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140037..

ALFA Lawyers helps you navigate the legal maze, specialising in criminal defence, police matters, traffic law, intervention orders, civil court litigation, and commercial leasing. Located in South Melbourne, we focus on holding wrongdoers accountable for financial or personal damages. Our approach emphasises fairness and justice in the community. If you're facing criminal charges, we work to defend your rights or negotiate the best plea outcome. We offer fixed legal fees, with expertise in forensic accountability, thanks to our principal lawyer's CPA qualification. We serve individuals, businesses, and other professionals needing expert forensic evidence support.

Our Team

Abed Jenkins from ALFA Lawyers
<1...45678...13>

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I file for divorce in Melbourne?
To file for divorce in Melbourne, you must apply through the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia using the Commonwealth Courts Portal online. You can file a sole application yourself or a joint application with your spouse. Before applying, you need to have been separated for at least 12 months, meet Australian residency requirements, provide your marriage certificate, and address any arrangements for children under 18. You can prepare the application yourself or engage a lawyer to assist you. The court does not determine financial or property matters through divorce proceedings, so you may need to file separate applications for those issues if required.
Can I apply for divorce online?
Yes, you can apply for divorce online in Victoria. You'll need to file your application through the Commonwealth Courts Portal, which allows you to submit your divorce application electronically and access your court file 24/7. You can prepare the application yourself or ask a lawyer to do it for you. You can apply either as a sole applicant or jointly with your spouse, depending on your circumstances. Before applying, you'll need to meet eligibility requirements including being separated for at least 12 months, having Australian residency connections, providing your marriage certificate, and making declarations about any children under 18. If you need assistance with your application, LawConnect has 26 divorce and separation lawyers listed in Melbourne who can help guide you through the process.
Do I have to go to mediation before divorce?
Before you can apply to the court for parenting orders in a divorce, you must generally make a genuine effort to resolve disputes about children through family dispute resolution, which is a form of mediation facilitated by an independent practitioner. This is a legal requirement unless an exception applies. If you attempt mediation but cannot reach agreement, or if the practitioner determines it is not appropriate, they will issue you with a certificate proving you have tried to resolve matters. This certificate is valid for 12 months and must be filed with your court application. For mediation services in Melbourne, Advance Mediation is available locally. If you have no children under 18 or already have satisfactory arrangements in place, different rules may apply. Consider speaking with a divorce lawyer to understand your specific situation.
How much does a divorce cost in Melbourne?
The cost of a divorce in Melbourne depends on complexity. Court filing fees are $1,170 for a standard divorce application, or $390 if you qualify for a reduced fee based on financial hardship or holding a concession card. Beyond court fees, lawyer costs typically range from $300 to $800 per hour. Simple uncontested divorces generally cost $1,500 to $3,500 in total legal fees, while contested matters involving property disputes or parenting arrangements can exceed $100,000. Many Melbourne family lawyers offer fixed-fee packages for straightforward cases. If cost is a concern, you may access free initial consultations with 38 firms in the Melbourne area, and 22 offer fixed-fee options. Legal aid may also be available depending on your circumstances through Victoria Legal Aid Melbourne, located 0.6 km away.
How is property divided in a divorce?
Property division in a divorce involves a structured legal process. Generally, you can reach your own agreement with your former spouse, which is usually faster and less costly than court proceedings. If you agree, you can formalise this through consent orders or a financial agreement. If you cannot agree, you may use mediation or dispute resolution to help resolve disagreements. As a last resort, you can apply to the court for property orders. The court typically follows a four-step process: identifying and valuing all assets and liabilities, assessing each party's contributions, considering their future needs, and determining a fair division. Note that property proceedings are separate from divorce itself. Time limits apply if you need court involvement, so it is important to seek legal advice promptly. A family law lawyer in Melbourne can guide you through the process based on your specific circumstances.
Is my super split in a divorce?
Superannuation can be split during a divorce or separation, but it is not mandatory. Your super is treated as an asset and can be divided between you and your former partner through a superannuation agreement, financial agreement, or court order. However, splitting does not convert your superannuation into cash—it remains in the superannuation fund and is still subject to preservation rules, meaning it typically cannot be accessed until you reach retirement age. You may also choose to account for superannuation value in your overall property settlement without actually splitting the super itself. Given the complexity involved, it is advisable to seek legal advice to understand your options and rights regarding your superannuation in Melbourne. A family law lawyer can help you navigate this process.
How long does a divorce take in Melbourne?
The timeframe for a divorce in Melbourne depends on whether you file a sole or joint application. You must first be separated for at least 12 months before you can apply. Once you file your application through the Commonwealth Courts Portal, the court will process it. If your divorce is granted, it becomes finalised one month and one day after the court grants it, unless the court makes a special order to shorten or lengthen this period. You can then access your divorce order the day after finalisation. The total time from application to finalisation varies depending on court workload and whether any issues are contested, so it's worth discussing your specific circumstances with a family lawyer who can give you a more precise estimate based on your situation.
Do I need a lawyer to get divorced?
No, you do not need a lawyer to get divorced in Australia. You can prepare and file your own divorce application online through the Commonwealth Courts Portal. However, many people choose to engage a lawyer to handle the process, particularly if there are complications or if you want professional guidance. Keep in mind that a divorce application only ends the marriage itself. If you have children under 18 or need to resolve financial and property matters, you will need to file separate applications for those issues, and this is where legal advice often becomes more valuable. In Melbourne, you have access to 84 local divorce and separation lawyers through LawConnect, with an average rating of 4.8 stars across over 6000 reviews. If you decide to seek professional help, 38 firms offer free consultations, and 22 provide fixed-fee services, which can help you understand costs upfront.
What is the 12 month separation rule?
The 12 month separation rule is a legal requirement in Australia before you can apply for a divorce. You and your spouse must have lived separately and apart for at least 12 months continuously, and there must be no reasonable likelihood of resuming married life together. It is possible to satisfy this requirement while still living in the same home, provided you are separated in other ways. This 12 month period is measured immediately before you file your divorce application with the court. Once you meet this requirement along with other eligibility criteria, you can proceed with your divorce application. If you need guidance on your specific situation, consider speaking with a family lawyer in Melbourne who can advise you further.
How do I get a copy of my divorce certificate?
You can obtain your divorce certificate by accessing the Commonwealth Courts Portal at no cost if your divorce was finalised after 13 February 2010 and you were a party to the proceedings. Your divorce order becomes available to download the day after it is finalised, which is typically one month and one day after your divorce hearing. If you are not yet registered for the Portal, you can register online using your file number and client number. If you do not have these details or cannot access your file, you can contact the court through their enquiry form for assistance with registration. For divorces finalised before 13 February 2010, you can request a proof of divorce document through an online form for a fee of thirty dollars.
What are consent orders in divorce?
Consent orders are legal court orders that formalise an agreement you and your former partner have reached about parenting arrangements, financial matters, or property division. They allow you to make your agreement legally binding without needing to go to court for a hearing. Both parties must fully disclose their financial circumstances and agree to the terms. Once made, consent orders are enforceable by the court, meaning either party can take legal action if the other breaches the agreement. For financial or property matters, you should generally apply within 12 months of divorce or two years since the end of a de facto relationship. It's advisable to seek legal advice before entering into consent orders to ensure they comply with family law requirements and protect your interests.
What is an uncontested divorce?
An uncontested divorce is a divorce where both parties agree to the separation and there are no disputes between them. In an uncontested divorce, both parties typically file a joint application together, meaning they cooperate throughout the process rather than one party filing against the other. This type of divorce is generally simpler and more straightforward than a contested divorce. However, it's important to understand that a divorce application only deals with the dissolution of the marriage itself. If you have children or property and finances to sort out, you'll need to file separate applications to address those matters. For an uncontested divorce in Melbourne, legal costs are typically more modest than complex cases, though you may wish to seek advice from a divorce lawyer to ensure your application is properly prepared and filed.
What do I need to disclose in a divorce?
In a divorce, you must disclose all information relevant to the issues in dispute to the other party and the court. This includes your total financial circumstances, such as all sources of income, earnings, interest, property (whether vested or contingent), and financial resources, regardless of whether they're owned directly by you or benefit someone else. You must also disclose any relevant documents, whether recorded on paper or stored electronically, including documents the other party may not know about. This duty of disclosure begins during pre-action procedures before your case starts and continues until the matter is finalised. As your circumstances change or new documents come into your possession, you must continue providing updated information. If you're uncertain about your specific disclosure obligations, speaking with a divorce lawyer in Melbourne can help clarify what you need to provide in your particular situation.
How do I change my name back after divorce?
After divorce, you can change your name back in Victoria through two main pathways. You may be able to revert to your former name informally without any formal process, depending on your circumstances. Alternatively, you can apply for a formal change of name through the Victorian Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. The formal application process involves submitting the required documentation and paying the applicable fee. Which option suits you best depends on your individual situation, so it's worth speaking with a family lawyer in Melbourne who can advise on the most straightforward approach for your circumstances and help guide you through whichever process you choose.
How is custody decided in a divorce?
In Australia, custody is now determined through parenting orders made under the Family Law Act. The court's paramount consideration is the best interests of the child, which focuses on safety and child-centred factors including the child's views, developmental and emotional needs, each parent's capacity to meet those needs, and the benefit of maintaining relationships with both parents where safe. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, connection with culture is also considered. Recent 2024 reforms removed the presumption of equal shared parental responsibility and the requirement to consider equal time arrangements. Instead, courts now have greater flexibility to make orders that suit each child's individual circumstances, allocating decision-making responsibility either jointly or solely depending on what serves the child's best interests. If you're navigating custody matters in Melbourne, speaking with a family law specialist can help you understand how these principles might apply to your situation.

Browse Divorce and Separation Lawyers near Melbourne VIC

Divorce and Separation Lawyers in DocklandsDivorce and Separation Lawyers in South MelbourneDivorce and Separation Lawyers in South YarraDivorce and Separation Lawyers in West MelbourneDivorce and Separation Lawyers in East MelbourneDivorce and Separation Lawyers in RichmondDivorce and Separation Lawyers in FitzroyDivorce and Separation Lawyers in North MelbourneDivorce and Separation Lawyers in Carlton NorthDivorce and Separation Lawyers in CarltonDivorce and Separation Lawyers in Clifton HillDivorce and Separation Lawyers in Port MelbourneDivorce and Separation Lawyers in CremorneDivorce and Separation Lawyers in Albert Park

Find Divorce and Separation Lawyers in Capital Cities

Divorce and Separation Lawyers in SydneyDivorce and Separation Lawyers in PerthDivorce and Separation Lawyers in MelbourneDivorce and Separation Lawyers in HobartDivorce and Separation Lawyers in DarwinDivorce and Separation Lawyers in CanberraDivorce and Separation Lawyers in BrisbaneDivorce and Separation Lawyers in Adelaide

Find trusted lawyers