Family lawyers for Cremorne & Richmond

Not automatically. A business is usually part of the overall property pool, but that doesn’t mean it’s split 50/50. The court looks at contributions (financial and non-financial), the history of the business and the future needs of both people.

We work with your accountant and, where needed, specialist valuers to understand what the business is really worth. In many cases, we’re able to structure a settlement that lets the business continue while using other assets or arrangements to balance things fairly.

Warehouse conversions and mixed-use properties in Cremorne and Richmond don’t always fit neatly into standard “residential” valuation models. There may be zoning issues, heritage overlays, commercial leases or development potential that affect value.

We engage valuers who understand the inner-east market and these kinds of properties specifically, so your asset is not undervalued or glossed over in negotiations.

You might. In many situations, de facto couples have very similar property rights to married couples. If you’ve lived together on a genuine domestic basis for a certain period (often two years or more, or less where there are children or significant contributions), the law can treat your separation in a similar way to a marriage breakdown.

We’ll go through your timeline and circumstances with you and explain whether your relationship is likely to be treated as de facto, and what that means for property and financial issues.

Yes. We regularly prepare Binding Financial Agreements (BFAs) for professionals and business owners who want to protect existing assets or clarify what would happen if they separate.

Many clients from South Yarra, Richmond and East Melbourne come to us with established property, businesses or family wealth. We can draft an agreement that reflects your intentions, works alongside your estate planning and, as far as possible, reduces uncertainty if things change in the future.

Usually, no. Our Cremorne office is a short walk from Richmond Station, so many clients see us before work, after work or in an extended lunch break.

If getting away from the office is difficult, we’re also happy to do your initial consultation by phone or video (Microsoft Teams or Zoom), so you can speak with us discreetly from home or work.

Yes. For many people in South Yarra, Toorak and East Melbourne, Cremorne is a convenient alternative to travelling into the CBD. We’re just across the river, close to trains and trams, and you still get city-level family law advice in a smaller, more personal setting.

Not in every case. Most family law matters are resolved through negotiation, mediation or consent orders without a full court hearing. Our first aim is always to see whether your matter can be resolved privately, in a way that protects your reputation and manages costs.

If litigation becomes necessary, we regularly represent clients in the Federal Circuit and Family Court (Melbourne registry) and will prepare you for what each step involves.

Yes. There is usually metered street parking available on Stephenson Street, Gwynne Street and surrounding streets. Because Cremorne is quite busy at peak times, many clients find it easier to walk from Richmond Station (around five minutes) or take a tram along Swan Street and walk down.