Family & Divorce Law Firms in Melbourne, Victoria

There is no automatic 50/50 split. The court considers each party's contributions, future needs and what is just and equitable in the circumstances. A family lawyer can give you a realistic range based on your situation.

No. Most families reach agreement through negotiation or mediation and formalise it with consent orders or a parenting plan. Court is generally a last resort when agreement cannot be reached or there are safety concerns.

You must be separated for at least 12 months before applying for a divorce. Property and parenting matters can be resolved before or after the divorce itself and are handled separately.

Look for a firm with genuine experience in your specific type of matter, clear and upfront pricing, and strong client reviews. Most firms offer an initial consultation, which is a good chance to ask about their approach and likely costs.

Many firms offer a free or low-cost first appointment. Use it to explain your situation, understand your options and get a sense of fees before committing. It is also a useful way to compare a few firms.