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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

Glezer Lanteri and Associates

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

Phoebe Haverford from Glezer Lanteri and AssociatesHomer Muntz from Glezer Lanteri and AssociatesApril Harris from Glezer Lanteri and AssociatesAnnie Geller from Glezer Lanteri and Associates
Nicholes Family Lawyers
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

Palmer Stevens and Rennick

Ascot Solicitors is a well-established law firm based in Melbourne, providing comprehensive conveyancing services delivered by a skilled legal team with extensive experience across property law. We recognise that buying or selling property is a significant milestone and often involves complex legal requirements, which is why we aim to simplify the process while ensuring thoroughness and accuracy at every stage. Our conveyancers assist clients with a broad range of transactions, including residential purchases, off the plan contracts, commercial property acquisitions, subdivisions, and land developments. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or managing more intricate property matters, we tailor our approach to meet your individual needs with clear and timely communication, helping to guide you confidently from contract preparation through to a successful settlement. Our team handles the preparation and review of sale and purchase documentation, coordinates property settlements, and addresses related party transfers and other specialised property law matters such as compulsory acquisitions. We appreciate the importance of expedience and precision in conveyancing, particularly when strict deadlines are involved. This commitment ensures that urgent matters are managed promptly without compromising attention to detail, thus contributing to smooth and efficient transactions for our clients. By combining technical expertise with a personalised client-focused approach, we strive to make the experience as straightforward and stress-free as possible while protecting our clients’ interests. Clients seeking conveyancing services can visit any of our multiple office locations throughout Melbourne and regional Victoria, including South Yarra, Deer Park, Caroline Springs, Sunbury, Essendon North, and Bendigo. Our team’s approachable manner and dedication to providing competitive rates make engaging with Ascot Solicitors a convenient and reassuring choice. Supporting you through every step of the property transaction, we prioritise open and honest communication, ensuring you are well-informed and confident as you work towards achieving your property objectives. Whether dealing with routine conveyancing or more complex property law issues, our legal team is committed to delivering practical solutions tailored to your situation.

Our Team

Andy Muntz from Palmer Stevens and RennickGob Chase from Palmer Stevens and RennickBuffy Giles from Palmer Stevens and Rennick
Pharmacis Canning Lawyers

Pharmacis Canning Lawyers offer personalised, compassionate legal services from community-based offices with friendly staff. We specialise in Divorce & Family Law, Criminal & Traffic Law, Wills & Estate Planning, Property Law, Civil Litigation, and Business & Commercial Law. Whether you're facing a family breakdown, criminal charges, planning your estate, buying/selling property, resolving disputes, or starting a business, our experts provide clear advice. Benefits include dealing directly with the principal, fixed fees, flexible payments, and an approachable team committed to helping you.

Our Team

Leslie Rodriguez from Pharmacis Canning LawyersJake Wiggum from Pharmacis Canning LawyersEleanor Lehane from Pharmacis Canning LawyersNed Parcell from Pharmacis Canning Lawyers
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

Dean Martin from Harris Carlson LawyersJoey Seinfeld from Harris Carlson LawyersKenneth Halpert 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
Costanzo Lawyers

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
VSTAR Lawyers and Consultants

Vstar Lawyers and Consultants offer quality, efficient, and cost-effective legal services across multiple disciplines. Since 2006, they’ve helped over 25,000 clients with matters including conveyancing, migration, commercial law, criminal law, and family law. Their fixed-rate conveyancing packages start from $1,100. Services also include notarial acts, document legalisation, and NAATI-certified translation. Vstar prides itself on commitment, expertise, integrity, compassion, and transparency, providing personalised, confidential advice tailored to client needs.

Our Team

Oscar Wyndam-Pryce from VSTAR Lawyers and Consultants Maggie Al-Jamil from VSTAR Lawyers and Consultants Dawn Barnes from VSTAR Lawyers and Consultants
KHQ Lawyers
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

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
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
JPLegal

JPLegal

JPLegal has 4.4 stars from 76 recommendations4.4
76 ratings
Click to Reveal Phone Number+6140069..

JPLegal, a trusted Heidelberg law firm since 1993, specialises in Family, Property, and Business Law. We provide personalised, progressive, and cost-effective legal services tailored to your needs. With cutting-edge technology and a boutique approach, our expert team delivers exceptional outcomes, empowering clients to move forward with confidence. Founded by John Pastro, JPLegal combines community focus with expert guidance to protect and advance your interests. Experience clear, accessible, and client-focused legal support with JPLegal.

Our Team

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
Asky International Lawyers
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 LawyersBen Budd from Asky International LawyersRupert Pelton from Asky International Lawyers

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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