Family Lawyers Melbourne: Real People, Real Solutions.

When family life changes, turn to Hartleys Lawyers. Our Melbourne family lawyers provide clear, practical advice to help you protect what matters and move forward with confidence.

Family-Law Advice Grounded in Experience

Hartleys Lawyers has supported Melbourne families since 2001. What began as a local practice in Melbourne’s western suburbs has grown into a trusted firm assisting clients through offices across metropolitan Melbourne.

As a family law firm in Melbourne, we understand that matters involving children, relationships and property are rarely just about documents and court procedures. They can also affect your home, finances, safety and future.

Our role is to help you understand:

If you are looking for a family solicitor in Melbourne, an early conversation can provide clarity before you make decisions or agree to arrangements with long-term consequences.

Areas Of Law

Every family is different. Our advice is tailored to the facts of your matter rather than based on a standard solution.

Property Settlements

A property settlement may involve your home, savings, debts, superannuation, businesses and other assets accumulated during the relationship.

Our family lawyers can discuss your options, assess the asset pool, and assist with negotiations, mediation, settlement agreements, urgent applications or court proceedings.

Children and Parenting

Family breakdowns can create uncertainty about parenting arrangements and the future wellbeing of your children.

Our family lawyers can assist with negotiation, mediation, parenting plans, consent orders, child support, relocation matters and court proceedings, with a practical and child-focused approach.

Divorce

You may apply for divorce after being separated for at least 12 months, including when living under the same roof.

Our family lawyers can advise on eligibility, prepare and serve your application, assist with required affidavits and represent you at court hearings.

Intervention Orders

Intervention Orders

Intervention orders are civil orders that may prohibit violence, property damage or other specified actions against another person.

Our lawyers can advise applicants and respondents, explain how an order may affect related family law matters, negotiate resolutions and provide representation in court.

Criminal Law

Hartleys Lawyers assists people who are under investigation, have been charged or require representation in a criminal matter.

Our lawyers can advise before police interviews, review evidence, explain your options, negotiate with prosecutors and represent you in the Magistrates’, County or Supreme Courts.

Wills and Estates

A will records how you want your estate distributed and who should carry out your wishes after your death.

Our lawyers can prepare wills, powers of attorney and medical decision documents, and assist with guardianship, probate, estate administration and estate disputes.

Conveyancing

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership when purchasing, selling or otherwise transferring property.

Our solicitors can prepare or review contracts and Section 32 statements, conduct property enquiries, liaise with banks and other parties, and coordinate settlement.

Legal Aid

The Hartleys Lawyers team can explain the Legal Aid process and, if your circumstances meet the relevant requirements, prepare and lodge a funding application on your behalf.

Funding remains subject to approval by Victoria Legal Aid.

What Our Clients Say

Read what clients have shared about their experience with Hartleys Lawyers.

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Lorena D profile picture
Lorena D
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I cannot recommend Hartleys Lawyers highly enough, especially Josh, who represented me throughout one of the most difficult periods of my life. My family law matter was long, complex, and emotionally exhausting. From the very beginning, Josh demonstrated exceptional professionalism, knowledge, integrity, and dedication. He always took the time to explain every step of the process, answered my questions with patience, and provided honest advice that gave me confidence during an incredibly challenging journey. What I appreciated most was that Josh genuinely cared not only about the legal outcome, but also about the well-being of my son and me. Throughout the entire case, my priority was to protect my child, and thanks to Josh's guidance, strategic advice, and unwavering commitment, we achieved that goal despite the obstacles we faced along the way. Josh also worked tirelessly to pursue an order for costs and to recover a significant portion of the legal fees I had incurred. Thanks to his persistence, careful preparation, and advocacy, we were successful in achieving that outcome as well. His commitment extended beyond simply resolving the case; he continued fighting to ensure I obtained the best possible result. Family Court can be an overwhelming and hostile experience, but having a lawyer who is compassionate, calm, highly skilled, and genuinely invested in his clients makes all the difference. I always felt that my son's best interests remained at the centre of every decision. I am deeply grateful to Josh and the Hartleys Lawyers team for their exceptional legal representation, professionalism, and humanity. They not only helped me protect what matters most, my son, but also stood beside me through every challenge with integrity and compassion. If you are looking for a family lawyer who combines exceptional legal expertise with genuine care for his clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Josh and Hartleys, Lawyers.
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Richard Bills profile picture
Richard Bills
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We recently used Hartleys Lawyers (Stephen Thomas) for what rapidly became a complex conveyancing issue. The calm, clear and concise guidance we received alleviated a lot of stress on our part and led to a successful resolution of the issues. Communication was easy, timely and responsive. We could not have been happier with the way this difficult situation was handled and have no hesitation warmly recommending both Stephen and Hartleys.
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Omar Ahmad profile picture
Omar Ahmad
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I highly recommend Hannah for anyone needing family law assistance. Throughout my matter, Hannah provided clear, honest, and accurate legal advice that helped me make informed decisions for myself and my child. She was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about achieving the best outcome for my family. Her guidance throughout the process gave me confidence and peace of mind, and the results she achieved were exactly what my family needed. Thank you, Hannah, for your dedication, support, and hard work. I am truly grateful for everything you have done for me and my child.
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Steven Lane profile picture
Steven Lane
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From Steven L I have used Emel twice now in recent months & have found her to be very upfront & Honest & easy to deal with. the out come both times have been a great result & I would highly recommend Emel to anyone looking for legal services
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Lily Fancoli profile picture
Lily Fancoli
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From O'Neal Martin. I have recently used Emel Kurt's services. Her professionalism, expertise and knowledge of the case, detailing step by step information to provide a successful outcome. I highly recommend Emel and Hartleys Lawyers. Emel truly looks after her clients best interests.
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Araleena Isse profile picture
Araleena Isse
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Josh Ryan is a skilled solicitor who is practical, direct and child focused. His guidance, legal acumen and knowledge was greatly appreciated and I can highly recommend him.
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Sonia Varner profile picture
Sonia Varner
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Emel was great to work with—supportive, professional, and really went above and beyond for us. She even helped with advice on another case outside her scope. Highly recommend!
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Sony Antony profile picture
Sony Antony
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I am sincerely grateful for the exceptional support provided by Ms Emel Kurt at Hartleys Lawyers. Ms Emel truly listened to my story, thoroughly went through my matter, and provided clear and thoughtful guidance on the best way forward. Ms Emel’s compassionate and professional approach made a meaningful difference during a very difficult time. I highly and warmly recommend Ms Emel to anyone seeking supportive and effective legal representation.
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Peter D profile picture
Peter D
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Hartleys Lawyer, and especially Jack, were very understanding and accommodating of our situation. Throughout the process we received information and opinions that provided us the perspective we needed to make important decisions. I recommend this law firm without hesitation.

A Practical Path Through Your Family Law Matter

Not every family law matter needs to be decided at a final court hearing. Depending on your circumstances and whether it is safe to do so, your matter may be resolved through negotiation, family dispute resolution, mediation or consent orders.

A Melbourne family lawyer from our team can help you consider the available options and choose an approach suited to the complexity and urgency of your matter.

We Listen

Your first appointment gives you an opportunity to explain what has happened, what concerns you and what you would like to achieve.

We Help You Prepare

This may involve gathering documents, identifying financial information, preparing proposals or taking steps to protect your legal position.

We Explain Your Options

We provide clear advice about your position, possible pathways and any important issues or deadlines requiring attention.

We Work Towards Resolution

Where appropriate, we seek to resolve matters through negotiation or dispute resolution. If court proceedings are required, we help prepare and present your case.

Call For Legal Advice

Why Melbourne Families Choose Hartleys Lawyers

People comparing family law firms in Melbourne need more than general legal information. They need a firm that listens, communicates clearly and provides advice connected to their circumstances.

Supporting Melbourne Families Since 2001

Hartleys Lawyers has provided legal assistance to individuals and families across Melbourne since 2001.

Focused on Resolution

Where appropriate, we look for practical ways to resolve disputes without unnecessary conflict. We can also represent clients in court when proceedings are required.

Locations Across Melbourne and Regional Victoria

Appointments are available by telephone, video conference or through our offices in Fitzroy, Sunshine, Dandenong, Melton, Williamstown, Moonee Ponds, Melbourne CBD, Box Hill, Mount Waverley, Heidelberg, South Morang and Daylesford.

Hartleys Lawyers solicitors have practised in states and territories across Australia and may be available to travel upon request. Please ask the intake team when booking your first appointment.

Clear and Direct Advice

We explain legal issues in straightforward language so you can understand your options and make informed decisions.

Accessible Legal Assistance

Hartleys Lawyers represents privately funded clients and eligible clients receiving government-assisted Legal Aid for family law parenting matters.

Clear Information About Costs

We provide written information about anticipated legal costs. Fixed fees are available for certain services, and eligible family law clients may also be able to access legal-fee funding through JustFund.

Meet the People Behind Hartleys Lawyers

Our lawyers bring diverse professional backgrounds, qualifications and areas of experience to the firm.

Together, they assist clients with family law, intervention orders, criminal law, conveyancing, wills and estates. The team also includes a lawyer trained to act as an Independent Children’s Lawyer when appointed by the Court.

Jack Harris

Principal Solicitor, LLB BA GDLP

Sussan Nguyen

Principal Solicitor, MAppLaw (Family Law) LLB Bcom GDLP

Stephen Thomas

Principal Solicitor, LLB (Hons) BA GDLP

Josh Ryan

Principal Solicitor, LLB BA GDLP, Independent Children's Lawyer

Emel Kurt

Senior Associate, LLB (hons) BLLP GDLP, Speaks Turkish

Andranik Kazaryan

Senior Associate, JD BSc GDLP

Hannah Alam

Associate Solicitor, BA, JD, GDLP

Brianna Benito

Associate Solicitor, LLB (Hons), GDLP

Adrian Hambleton

Associate Solicitor, LLB (Hons), GDLP, HBPX

Eleni Trimbonias

Solicitor, LLB, BGlobST, GDLP

Ally Jo Huang

Graduate, BA, JD, GDLP, Speaks Mandarin

Latest Family Law Insights

Read practical articles from Hartleys Lawyers covering family law developments and issues affecting individuals and families across Melbourne.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is generally helpful to obtain advice before signing documents, accepting a proposed settlement or making significant changes to parenting or financial arrangements.

You do not need to wait until a dispute reaches court. Early advice can help you understand your position and avoid decisions that may be difficult to reverse.

No. Many matters can be resolved through negotiation, family dispute resolution, mediation or an agreement formalised through consent orders.

Court proceedings may be necessary when the parties cannot reach an agreement, urgent orders are needed, safety concerns exist or one party is not participating meaningfully in the process.

Your lawyer will ask about your circumstances, any existing agreements or court orders and what you would like to achieve. You can discuss your immediate concerns, possible next steps and anticipated legal costs.

Bringing relevant correspondence, court documents, financial information and a short timeline can help you make productive use of the appointment.

Legal costs depend on the type of matter, its complexity, the level of agreement between the parties and whether court proceedings are required.

Hartleys Lawyers offers a free initial appointment and provides clients with a Disclosure Statement and Costs Agreement. Fixed fees may be available for certain services, including divorce applications and some court appearances.

Consider whether the lawyer regularly practises in the relevant area, communicates clearly, understands your priorities and provides transparent information about costs and possible pathways.

The right lawyer should explain both the strengths and risks of your position without making unrealistic promises about the result.

Tell our intake team immediately if your matter involves an upcoming court date, concerns about a child, family violence, an intervention order or another urgent issue. The team can assess the circumstances and explain the next appropriate step.

If anyone is in immediate danger, call 000.

Start With a Free Initial Appointment

Your first appointment is an opportunity to discuss your circumstances, understand your immediate options and decide what assistance you may need.

Appointments are available by telephone, video conference or at one of our offices across Melbourne.

The information on this page is general information only and is not a substitute for legal advice about your circumstances.