Family & Estate Lawyers in Melbourne
From the CBD to the inner suburbs, our accredited family lawyers have guided Melbourne families through separation, parenting and estate matters for more than 40 years — with compassionate, straight-talking advice, close to home.
Trusted family & estate lawyers for Melbourne families
Vic Rajah Family & Estate Lawyers has called Melbourne home since 1980, when we became the first firm in Australia to specialise solely in family law. Our City office on Queen Street sits minutes from the Commonwealth Courts and the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court — so if your matter ever needs to be heard, support is never far away.
We understand that behind every CBD address is a real family: professionals balancing demanding careers, parents navigating shared care across the inner suburbs, and Melburnians protecting what they’ve built through clear, considered estate planning. Whatever brought you here, you’ll be met with practical advice and genuine care.
Firm Principal · Accredited Specialist (Family Law)
Family & estate law services in Melbourne
Specialist advice across every stage of family and estate law — always explained in plain English.
Divorce & Separation
Clear guidance on separating, applying for divorce and protecting your interests from day one.
Learn moreParenting Arrangements
Child-focused parenting plans and orders that put your children’s wellbeing first.
Learn moreProperty Settlements
Fair division of property, superannuation and assets — negotiated efficiently, resolved sooner.
Learn moreChild Support
Assistance with child support assessments, agreements and departures where circumstances change.
Learn moreSpousal Maintenance
Advice on financial support after separation — whether you may be entitled or asked to pay.
Learn moreIntervention Orders
Urgent, sensitive help with family violence intervention orders and personal safety.
Learn morePrenuptial Agreements
Binding financial agreements that protect both partners before or during a relationship.
Learn moreWills & Estates
Wills, probate, powers of attorney and estate disputes — protecting your legacy and loved ones.
Learn moreFour decades of family law, on your side
We pair deep specialist expertise with genuine warmth — so you always understand what’s happening and why.
Genuine specialists
Led by an Accredited Family Law Specialist — accurate advice, even in the most complex matters.
Clear, practical advice
No jargon and no surprises — honest guidance and transparent costs from the very first conversation.
Local accessibility
Five offices across Melbourne and Victoria, with in-person, phone and video appointments to suit you.
Client-focused & caring
We take the time to understand you. You’ll feel supported, respected and heard at every step.
Your local Melbourne office
Vic Rajah Family & Estate Lawyers — Melbourne City
Level 4, 179 Queen Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Monday–Friday & by arrangement
One team. Five offices.
Forty years of care.
From your first phone call to the final handshake, you’ll work with genuine specialists who treat your family the way they would want their own to be treated.
Experienced lawyers who genuinely care
The same trusted team supports clients across all of our Victorian offices, including Melbourne.
Vic Rajah
Helen Roach
Kate Connolly
Malcolm Burrell
Sarah Pollock
Tahlia Corbin
How we help, step by step
From your first call to resolution, here’s what working with us looks like.
Reach out
Call or enquire online. Our team listens, answers your first questions and books your consultation.
Initial consultation
We take time to understand your circumstances, explain your options clearly and outline likely costs.
Your tailored strategy
We agree a practical plan focused on resolution — keeping you informed at every stage.
Resolution & beyond
We work towards the best outcome for you and your family — and remain here whenever you need us.
Family law in Melbourne — what to know
Genuinely useful local information for families in Melbourne and the surrounding suburbs.
Courts we appear in
Melbourne family matters are generally heard nearby, including:
- Federal Circuit & Family Court of Australia — Commonwealth Courts, 305 William St
- Melbourne Magistrates’ Court — family violence & intervention orders
- Supreme Court of Victoria — probate & estate disputes
Suburbs we service
Our Melbourne office regularly supports families across the CBD and inner ring — Carlton, Southbank, Docklands, East & North Melbourne, South Yarra, Parkville, Fitzroy and surrounding suburbs.
Local considerations
Inner-city families often deal with high-value property settlements, apartment and investment holdings, self-employed or professional incomes, and shared-care schedules built around city commutes. Our advice is tailored to these realities.
How consultations work
Meet us in person at our Queen Street office, or choose a phone or secure video consultation if that’s easier around work and family. Either way, you’ll get the same clear, confidential advice.
Common questions from Melbourne families
Answers to the questions we hear most often — replaceable per location.
Do I need to visit your Melbourne office in person?
Not necessarily. Many Melbourne clients prefer to meet at our Queen Street office, but we also offer phone and secure video consultations. We’ll work around your schedule and how you feel most comfortable.
How much does an initial consultation cost?
We’ll explain our fees clearly before you commit to anything. Our aim from the first conversation is transparency — you’ll understand the likely costs and the value we provide, with no surprises.
Which court will my family law matter be heard in near Melbourne?
Most Melbourne family law matters are dealt with by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia at the Commonwealth Courts on William Street, while family violence intervention orders are typically heard at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court. We’ll guide you through the right forum for your situation.
How long does a divorce or property settlement take?
It depends on your circumstances and how readily agreement can be reached. Wherever possible we resolve matters without going to court, which is usually faster and less costly. We’ll give you a realistic timeframe at your consultation.
Do you handle both family law and wills & estates?
Yes. Alongside our family law specialists, our team includes experienced wills and estates lawyers — so we can help with wills, probate, powers of attorney and estate disputes for Melbourne families under one roof.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Photo ID and any relevant documents — for example court paperwork, financial statements or an existing will. If you’re not sure, just come as you are and we’ll help you gather what’s needed.
Talk to a Melbourne family lawyer today
A confidential, no-obligation conversation is the easiest way to understand your options. We’re here to help you move forward.