Our Armadale family lawyers provide clear, strategic advice to help you resolve parenting and property matters efficiently after separation or divorce, with a focus on practical outcomes and legally binding agreements.
Separation can leave you uncertain about your rights, your financial position and what comes next. When significant assets, property or financial structures are involved, the stakes are higher and early decisions matter.
At Hamilton Thomas Lawyers, your matter is handled with care, attention and purpose. We’ll help you understand your options, reduce risk and move toward a fair, legally binding outcome.
We understand how important it is to make the right decisions after separation. Our Armadale family lawyers can assist you with property settlements, financial arrangements and parenting matters, guiding you toward practical, enforceable outcomes.
We prioritise structured negotiation and mediation, avoiding the stress of court whenever possible.
Client reviews
Verified Google Reviews · 4.9 stars
Posted on Google Fiona LarkinTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After going through a messy separation involving finance and children, Hamilton Thomas Layers provided an exceptional service which was personable and supportive, not only with the legalities but also on an emotional level. All staff were compassionate and ensured all decisions were measured and realistic to ensure unnecessary spend and achieve sensible outcomes I was happy with. Highly recommend this firm for legal engagements.Posted on Google Hana GoodmanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a very professional experience. We worked with Rebecca and Jordan who were fantastic. The team communicated well and dealt with our matter efficiently. Thanks to them, what seemed to be an overwhelming situation was resolved easier that expected. We are very pleased and highly recommend their services.Posted on Google Elly CarverTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Incredibly grateful to Rebecca and her team for guiding me through my property settlement. From start to finish, they were supportive, responsive, and highly professional. They made a difficult and draining process much easier to navigate and always made me feel supported and informed. Their expertise and commitment to my case resulted in a positive outcome, and I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone facing similar legal challenges.Posted on Google Chris MarcheseTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. While I of course hope people don't need the services of a family lawyer, if you do, I can't recommend Jordan from Hamilton Thomas Lawyers highly enough. The peace of mind I had from knowing he was always in my corner really made the whole process (which is always going to be stressful) a lot easier. I could always trust he knew the law extremely well and he constantly took the time to talk me through various scenarios and options I could take to make sure I was prepared to make difficult decisions about what was next.Posted on Google Leon de BruinTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I found HamiltonThomas Lawyers extremely professional. From an extensive initial consult i felt confident my case was well considered and approached well. I found Jordan to be attentive, diligent, knowledgeable and fast-acting in keeping me up to date with proceedings as the case unfolded. I heartily recommend Jordan and the firmPosted on Google Tess ReidTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Sadly I lost someone very dear to me, and Jordan was the solicitor named in the will. As the executor, I had never been in this position before, but Jordan was patient, caring, and took the time to explain everything clearly while guiding me through the process properly. He made what was a very difficult time feel much more manageable, and I always felt reassured that I was in good hands. He was also very down to earth and genuinely pleasant to deal with throughout the entire process. I would highly recommend him to anyone needing assistance with estate matters.Posted on Google Scott ReadTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Both Rebecca and Jordan met all of my legal needs and were a pleasure to deal with. I recommend highly!Posted on Google Josh HallTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Rebecca and the team at Hamilton Thomas were instrumental during my de-facto split. Their advice and consultation always left me with a clear view of the scenario and I wouldn't have been able to keep the things I value without their advice.
How we help
Practical, clear advice across all areas of family law — from first questions to final resolution.
Clear guidance through separation, protecting your rights and helping you plan your next chapter.
Strategic advice to secure a fair division of assets and protect what matters most to you.
Practical solutions focused on your children’s best interests while reducing conflict.
Advice on financial support obligations so you understand your entitlements clearly.
Structured negotiation to avoid unnecessary court and reduce stress wherever possible.
Legally binding agreements that formalise arrangements and provide long-term security.
Our people
40+ years combined family law experience. You speak to senior lawyers from your very first call.
Strict timeframes apply to family law matters, so it’s important to act early to protect your rights.
Marriage: You must apply for property orders within 12 months of your divorce becoming final.
De facto: You have 24 months from the date of separation to apply for a property settlement.
In limited circumstances, the Court may allow an extension of time, but this is not guaranteed. It is always safer to seek advice and take action within the relevant timeframes.
Getting started
Three simple steps to getting expert family lawyers on your side.
01
Book your free discovery call
Meet our Carnegie team, discuss your situation and explore your options — no obligation, no jargon.
02
Personalised strategy
We match you with the right lawyer and build a tailored plan around your goals and circumstances.
03
Resolution & moving forward
We guide you to a fair outcome so you can move ahead with clarity and confidence.
You don’t have to face family law matters alone. Speak with our Armadale family lawyers for practical guidance and compassionate support at every stage.
Not always. Most property settlements are resolved through negotiation or mediation. However, to make your agreement legally binding and final, you should formalise it through Consent Orders, which are approved by the Court without a hearing, or a Binding Financial Agreement.
Informal agreements are not legally enforceable in family law. To protect yourself from future claims, any settlement must be documented in a specific legal format. Without this, your ex-partner could potentially make a claim against your assets years down the track.
Yes. In Australia, property settlement and divorce are separate legal processes. Finalising your financial split as early as possible after separation can provide certainty and protect your post-separation earnings.
If you cannot agree on a value, for example, the family home or a business, we usually appoint an independent expert valuer. Their objective assessment often provides the clarity needed to move negotiations forward without further dispute.
Financial contributions are important, but they are only one factor. The law also places significant weight on non-financial contributions, such as caring for children and homemaking, as well as on each party’s current and future needs, and factors such as earning capacity and health. If you need advice specific to your situation, please contact our Armadale family law team.
Serving Melbourne
Based in Carnegie. We see clients in person or online, whichever suits you.