How do I check a lawyer is licensed in Victoria?

Practising certificates in Victoria are managed by the Victorian Legal Services Board. You can check a solicitor's status on its public register or by contacting it directly.

De Facto Relationships lawyers in Melbourne CBD, VIC

What to discuss at the first meeting

Explain the relationship history, living arrangements and financial connections. The lawyer can assess which issues require advice without assuming the same pathway applies to every unmarried couple.

Ask about the relevant jurisdiction and requirements before relying on assumptions based only on the length of the relationship.

Working with a firm in Melbourne CBD

A Melbourne CBD search can be useful for comparing teams with different specialisations. Ask who will do the work and who will supervise it, especially when a firm has several practice departments.

For de facto relationships, ask which parts of the work the firm handles itself and whether it has relevant VIC experience. Let the lawyer know if a property, employer, other party or existing proceeding is outside Melbourne CBD. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.

How the engagement may progress

Explain the relationship history, current arrangements and outcome you want. Identify immediate concerns and provide every existing order or agreement.
Discuss negotiation and family dispute resolution. Parenting applications generally involve prior dispute resolution unless an exception applies; ask the lawyer to assess the appropriate process.
Ask how an agreement would be documented and implemented. Clarify who handles related transfers, finance and estate-planning work.

Fees and the scope of work

Ask for separate estimates for advice, negotiation, document preparation and court work. A fixed divorce-application fee does not necessarily cover parenting or financial disputes.

Ask for a written scope identifying the work you are authorising, the person responsible and when costs will be reviewed. If you only want advice on one step, say so before the firm begins wider work.

Dates to raise at first contact

Highlight court dates, proposed travel or relocation and any planned property sale. Ask which time limits apply to your particular issues rather than assuming there is one deadline for everything.

Courts and tribunals in Victoria

In Victoria, the Magistrates' Court hears most criminal and minor civil matters, with the County Court and Supreme Court handling more serious cases. Residential tenancy, planning, building and discrimination disputes often go to VCAT. Lawyers are regulated by the Victorian Legal Services Board + Commissioner, which also handles complaints.

Frequently asked questions

Are de facto couples treated like married couples?

Largely, yes, for property and parenting under federal law, if you meet the de facto definition. Different rules apply for some matters under state law.

What is the time limit for de facto property claims?

Generally two years from the date of separation.

Which courts hear cases from Melbourne CBD?

Most matters start in the Magistrates' Court. More serious cases go to the County Court or the Supreme Court of Victoria. Family law matters are heard by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

De Facto Relationships lawyers in Melbourne CBD

MJ Legal

Pearsons Lawyers Pty Ltd

Why de facto relationships matters

The Australian context

A practical guide to de facto relationships in Melbourne CBD

What to discuss at the first meeting

Working with a firm in Melbourne CBD

How the engagement may progress

Fees and the scope of work

Dates to raise at first contact

Courts and tribunals in Victoria

Frequently asked questions

Questions to ask a de facto relationships adviser

De Facto Relationships lawyers in other VIC regions

Other lawyers in Melbourne CBD

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