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near Melbourne VIC

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

Average rating of Family Lawyers near Melbourne VIC

4.8
4.85 stars from 6570 recommendationsStarStarStarStar

based on 6570 client reviews

Family Lawyers in Melbourne VIC

Elit Lawyers by McGirr & Snell
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140028..

At Elit Lawyers by McGirr & Snell, established in November 2020 by Danielle Snell and Robert McGirr, we aim to redefine the legal landscape with a contemporary, client-centric approach. Born during the COVID-19 pandemic, we focus on modern, transparent client experiences through technology and open communication. Our commitment to excellence earned us the Boutique Law Firm of the Year award at the 2022 Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards and recognition as one of Australia’s Fastest Growing Firms by Australasian Lawyer. In 2023, Danielle Snell was honoured as ‘Law Firm Leader of the Year (<200 employees)’ at the Australasian Law Awards, highlighting our dedication to innovation and exceptional legal service.

Our Team

Moira Malone from Elit Lawyers by McGirr & SnellPatty Geller from Elit Lawyers by McGirr & SnellJack Donaghy from Elit Lawyers by McGirr & Snell
Douros Jackson Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140024..

Douros Jackson, a premier boutique commercial law firm established in 2000, is recognised for its reliability and practical solutions. Initially flourishing in Melbourne, the firm expanded to Sydney in 2004, followed by Brisbane and Perth, offering comprehensive legal services across Australia. Its client-centric philosophy, combined with growing demand, has sparked continuous growth. Embracing technology, Douros Jackson implemented an advanced online client portal for efficient service delivery. The firm's success stems from its experienced lawyers, commitment to result-driven services, and strong teamwork, fostering lasting client relationships to ensure future success.

Our Team

Gob Skinner from Douros Jackson LawyersMaggie Traeger from Douros Jackson Lawyers
Romer Maud Family Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140077..

Romer Maud Family Lawyers offer compassionate, empathetic, and expert legal support for those navigating family law matters. With over 20 years' combined experience, our team understands how vital it is for clients to feel seen and heard. We specialise in complex parenting and property issues and can represent you in Court when necessary. Our firm prioritises clear, concise advice to empower you in making informed decisions for your family's future. We value trust, kindness, equality, and transformation. Our services include separation, child custody, spousal maintenance, mediation, divorce, property settlements, and more. Focus on healing while we tackle your legal challenges.

Our Team

Nelson Martin from Romer Maud Family LawyersJenna Halpert from Romer Maud Family LawyersCordelia Funke from Romer Maud Family Lawyers
King & Collins
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140097..

King and Collins specialises in complex family wealth disputes and litigation, focusing on family trusts, intergenerational business transitions, deceased estates, and commercial disputes. Our approach prioritises understanding family and commercial dynamics to resolve disputes privately and quickly, preserving relationships. We believe preventing family disharmony is better than remedying it, applying our expertise to help clients with planning their family and commercial relationships and succession strategies to avoid future conflicts. Litigation is a last resort, and when necessary, we pursue it with zeal, efficiency, and sensitivity for our clients' best outcomes.

Our Team

Cosmo Santiago from King & CollinsPierce Swanson from King & CollinsAnn Donaghy from King & Collins
LawBridge Lawyers & Consultants
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140064..

LawBridge brings together a team of skilled lawyers, recognised for their technical excellence and outstanding service, backed by a strong commercial perspective. We prioritise building lasting partnerships with clients by thoroughly understanding their strategic needs. Our expertise spans corporate and commercial law, informed by our diverse backgrounds as company directors and community leaders, making us a trusted choice for navigating legal challenges. As a boutique firm, we specialise in commercial and corporate law while also addressing personal and not-for-profit issues, offering proactive advice and effective representation in litigation to protect clients' interests. Our practice areas include commercial law, litigation, family law, wills, employment, insolvency, intellectual property, and more.

Our Team

Ben Beesly from LawBridge Lawyers & ConsultantsCosmo Boyle from LawBridge Lawyers & ConsultantsNewman Parcell from LawBridge Lawyers & Consultants
Vic Rajah Family Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140023..

Vic Rajah Family Lawyers, founded in 1980 by Richard Calley, is a leader in family law, with Vic Rajah taking over in 2013. The firm’s excellence is recognised and referred by commercial lawyers, accountants, and health practitioners, attracting a diverse clientele. With offices in Melbourne CBD, Sandringham, and Mt Eliza, it serves clients throughout metropolitan Melbourne and beyond. The firm offers a range of services including Pre-Nuptial Agreements, Restraining Orders, Divorce, Financial Support, Property Settlements, Separation, Parenting Arrangements, Spousal Maintenance, and Child Support, dedicated to providing top-tier legal guidance.

Our Team

Lucille Boyle from Vic Rajah Family LawyersAnnie Ludgate from Vic Rajah Family LawyersJake Rosenberg from Vic Rajah Family Lawyers
Cornelius Family Law
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140097..

Cornelius Family Law offers expert advice in all family law and relationship matters, with over 28 years of experience handling diverse cases. We recognise that each situation is unique, requiring tailored solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you're making decisions about children, dividing assets, or seeking protection before a new relationship, investing in the right support is crucial. Our specialised firm focuses solely on family law, ensuring personalised attention to your concerns and strategies designed to help you achieve your goals effectively. Let us guide you through these challenging times.

Our Team

Terry Gergich from Cornelius Family Law
Clark Family Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140074..

Clark Family Lawyers provide compassionate support during challenging times, focusing on developing effective strategies tailored to our clients. We offer prompt, practical, and affordable legal advice to ensure clients are informed about their options. Our services include a free initial consultation and cover separation, property settlements, children’s matters (custody, access), intervention orders, De Facto and same-sex relationships, relocation of family members, child retrieval from abroad, representation in Hague Convention cases, and divorce. We assist clients considering separation, responding to legal letters, executing consent orders, seeking urgent court orders, or wishing to commence divorce proceedings.

Our Team

Ben Seinfeld from Clark Family LawyersGina Kroker from Clark Family Lawyers
Stuart Family Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140017..

Stuart Family Lawyers is a boutique firm specialising in family and relationship law. We support clients during marriage breakdowns, same-sex, and de facto relationships, offering strategic and practical legal advice. Our services include separation and divorce, property and financial settlements, children and parenting issues, spousal and child support, Family Court proceedings, prenups, mediation, family violence intervention orders, and third-party representation. We prioritise delivering a high level of service tailored to our clients' needs.

Our Team

Oz Benes from Stuart Family LawyersEdna Green from Stuart Family LawyersOz Kramer from Stuart Family Lawyers
Smith Family Law
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140069..

Smith Family Law firm is dedicated to guiding clients through the complexities of family law. Our experienced team provides expert advice on separation, divorce, property settlement, and parenting arrangements, along with binding financial agreements, spousal maintenance, family violence, child support, and out-of-court settlements. We also handle surrogacy and LGBTIQA+ family law matters with an inclusive approach. In deceased estates, our probate and estate litigation lawyers assist with estate administration and disputes, ensuring clients feel supported throughout. Our Melbourne team delivers personalised legal solutions tailored to your needs.

Our Team

Leslie Buffay from Smith Family LawFry Van Houten from Smith Family LawLisa Mendoza from Smith Family Law
Freeman Family Law
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140009..

Freeman Family Law has been helping clients in the Melbourne CBD, Yarraville, Caroline Springs, Hillside, Keilor, Albert Park, and Taylors Lakes for over 30 years. Our expertise includes divorce, financial matters, parenting issues, wills and estates, property law, and family law.

Our Team

Nelson Chase from Freeman Family LawShirley Barnes from Freeman Family LawCordelia Farnsworth from Freeman Family Law
Emera Family Law
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140097..

Emera Family Law offers comprehensive family law services, guiding you from separation to divorce, including property matters, children and parenting, financial agreements, family violence, and support for the LGBTI+ community. We stand by your side, providing supportive, caring, pragmatic, and decisive assistance. Our focus is on negotiation rather than litigation, ensuring we work towards a better outcome for you. We specialise in Property Settlement, Children and Parenting, Financial Agreements, Family Violence and Intervention Orders, Mediation and Out-of-Court Settlements, and Divorce Law.

Our Team

Wesley Muntz from Emera Family LawRosa Meagle from Emera Family LawMonica Anagonye from Emera Family Law
JB Solicitors

At JB Solicitors, client satisfaction defines our success. We blend the expertise of large firms with the personalised service of a boutique practice, offering an affordable alternative without compromising quality. We aim for efficient resolutions to legal matters, seeking optimal settlements outside of court where possible. If litigation is necessary, our team is determined to protect our clients' interests vigorously. Our services include Family Law (divorce, mediation, property settlements), wills and estate planning, and additional areas like commercial law, civil disputes, criminal law, and immigration.

Our Team

Waylon Flenderson from JB SolicitorsTahani Scott from JB SolicitorsJohnny Maclay from JB Solicitors
Meraki Lawyers
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140026..

Bringing heart and soul back to law, Meraki means to work with passion and love. We prioritise an authentic approach, creating a safe space for clients. Our dedicated team, with over 30 years of combined experience, ensures a unique legal process, instilling confidence through integrity and genuine connections. We provide a range of services, including Property Law (transactions, leases, mortgages), Wills and Estates (Wills, Power of Attorney), Family Law, Commercial Law, Criminal Law, Immigration Law, and Traffic Law. At Meraki Lawyers, we go above and beyond for our clients, ensuring the highest quality of service.

Our Team

Moira Vance from Meraki LawyersTroy Szyslak from Meraki Lawyers
Kingston Lawyers Pty. Ltd.
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140029..

Since 1970, Kingston Lawyers has been a cornerstone of legal excellence in Melbourne. As one of the city's most trusted law firms, our experienced team provides unwavering support and expert advice during life's challenges. We specialise in a range of areas, including Commercial and Business Law, Wills, Estates, Property Law, Intellectual Property, and Entertainment Law. Our commitment to "Our clients come first" informs every action, ensuring we understand your needs and strive for the best outcomes. We look forward to serving you and upholding your interests with diligence and care while maintaining our commitment to excellence in every case.

Our Team

Rupert Turanga from Kingston Lawyers Pty. Ltd.Terry Mendoza from Kingston Lawyers Pty. Ltd.Gob Perkins from Kingston Lawyers Pty. Ltd.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a good family lawyer in Melbourne?
To find a good family lawyer in Melbourne, look for an accredited specialist in family law who has substantial experience in your specific legal issue, whether that's divorce, child custody, property settlement or another matter. Check how long they've been practising and ensure they hold formal accreditation, which indicates they've met rigorous standards of legal excellence and expertise. Consider accessibility and responsiveness, as family law matters often require quick action. Many family lawyers offer initial consultations, which gives you a chance to assess whether you're comfortable working with them during what can be a stressful time. LawConnect lists over 100 family law firms in Melbourne, with an average rating of 4.8 stars across thousands of reviews. Many offer free consultations, fixed fees, or online services to suit different needs and budgets. You can search LawConnect's directory to find firms that match your circumstances and preferences.
Can I get free legal advice for a family law matter?
Yes, there are several ways to access free legal advice for family law matters in Melbourne. Legal aid commissions provide free legal assistance to people who are economically or socially disadvantaged. In Victoria, you can contact the relevant legal aid organisation to discuss your eligibility and the support available. Additionally, community legal centres offer free services, and family dispute resolution providers can help separating families resolve disputes without going to court. Among the 234 family law firms listed on LawConnect in Melbourne, 43 offer free initial consultations, which is another way to get initial guidance on your situation. It's worth exploring these options based on your circumstances.
Which family lawyers offer a free consultation in Melbourne?
Among family lawyers listed on LawConnect in Melbourne, 43 firms offer a free initial consultation. This is a common practice in family law, as many practitioners use free consultations to discuss your matter, understand your circumstances, and explain how they can help before you commit to engaging their services. When contacting family lawyers in Melbourne, it's worth asking specifically about their consultation policy, as the length and scope of free consultations can vary between firms. You can search LawConnect's directory of Melbourne family lawyers to find those offering this service and compare their experience and expertise across areas like divorce, child custody, property settlement, and other family law matters.
How do I apply for legal aid for a family law case in Melbourne?
In Victoria, you can apply for legal aid by contacting the state's legal aid authority directly. You can call them on 1300 792 387 or chat with them online to discuss your family law matter and whether you may qualify for assistance. They assess applications based on your financial circumstances and the merits of your case. If you're approved, they can provide legal representation or advice for your family law case. In Melbourne, there are 234 family law firms listed on LawConnect, including 4 that offer legal aid services, so you may also explore private options if legal aid isn't available to you.
How do I find a reputable family law firm in Melbourne?
To find a reputable family law firm in Melbourne, look for accredited specialists with substantial experience in family law matters. Check their qualifications, read client reviews, and verify they're accessible and responsive to your needs. LawConnect lists 234 family law firms across Australia, with 100 based in Melbourne and 134 in nearby areas. The firms listed average 4.8 stars across 6570 reviews. Many offer flexible arrangements: 43 provide free consultations, 25 offer fixed fees, 26 operate online, and some accept legal aid or provide pro bono services. You'll also find 57 female lawyers and support in 28 languages among Melbourne firms. Start by contacting firms that match your circumstances and budget. A free initial consultation can help you assess whether they're the right fit for your family law matter.
How much does a family lawyer cost per hour in Melbourne?
Family lawyers in Melbourne typically charge between $300 and $800 per hour, depending on the lawyer's experience level and the complexity of your matter. Junior lawyers generally charge $300-$400 per hour, mid-level lawyers $400-$500, and senior lawyers or partners $500-$800. Many family law firms also offer fixed fee arrangements for specific services like preparing applications or drafting agreements, which can provide greater cost certainty. Among the family law firms available through LawConnect in Melbourne, 25 offer fixed fee options, and 43 provide free initial consultations, which can help you understand your costs before committing to representation. It's worth discussing billing options with your chosen lawyer to find an arrangement that suits your circumstances.
What should I expect at my first family court hearing?
Your first family court hearing is typically a procedural hearing scheduled one to two months after you file your case. At this hearing, the judge or registrar will give directions about the next steps needed to progress your matter, which may include orders for gathering evidence, obtaining expert reports, attending dispute resolution, or completing parenting courses. The court may also approve agreed orders if both parties have reached an agreement, or make interim orders where appropriate. Before entering the courtroom, turn off your mobile phone and remove hats or sunglasses. Give your appearance to the court officer, then sit at the back of the courtroom. You may bring a support person, though they cannot sit with you at the bar table or speak on your behalf. If you need legal assistance, you can ask to speak with the duty lawyer. Consider consulting a family lawyer in Melbourne to help you prepare for your hearing and understand what to expect based on your specific circumstances.
What does self-representation in family court involve?
Self-representation in family court, also called appearing as a litigant in person, means you conduct your own case without a lawyer. You'll typically appear at procedural hearings where the court gives directions on next steps, such as gathering evidence or attending dispute resolution. At your first court event, you'll need to give your appearance to the court officer, and you may bring a support person who can accompany you but cannot sit at the bar table or speak on your behalf. Before court, you should turn off mobile phones and remove hats and sunglasses. The court expects you to have attempted to resolve disputes through pre-action procedures before your first hearing. If you need assistance, you may speak to a duty lawyer at court. Self-representation can be complex, so consider seeking legal advice to understand your rights and obligations.
What qualifies as an urgent family law matter?
An urgent family law matter is one where you can demonstrate to the court that your application requires priority handling due to compelling circumstances. You can request an urgent listing by filing an interlocutory order with the court, supported by an affidavit explaining the facts and a cover letter outlining the basis for urgency. In extremely urgent situations, you may seek an ex parte order, which allows the court to make a decision without notifying the other party. The court will assess your urgency request and advise you of any changes to your hearing date or additional steps required. If you need assistance preparing an urgent application, LawConnect has 8 family law firms in Melbourne offering emergency services, along with 4 legal aid providers and 4 pro bono options available.

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