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Commercial and Business Lawyers in Melbourne & Mount Waverley
Our commercial and business lawyers advise start‑ups, family businesses and established companies across Melbourne and Victoria. We assist with business structures, contracts, business sales and purchases, governance and compliance, helping you manage risk and support your long‑term growth.
Strategic Business Structuring & Governance
Whether you are launching a start‑up, restructuring a family business or preparing for a high‑value sale, the right legal structure is fundamental. We advise on Proprietary Limited (Pty Ltd) companies, discretionary and unit trusts, and partnerships. Our team implements clear governance frameworks, including shareholder and unitholder agreements, to manage relationships between stakeholders and protect long‑term value.
Commercial Agreements & Contracts
A well-drafted contract is your primary defence against commercial risk. Our lawyers draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of agreements tailored to your industry, including:
Supply, distribution, and service agreements.
Intellectual Property (IP) licences and confidentiality deeds.
Terms and conditions of trade.
Loan agreements and general security deeds.
Business Transactions & Succession
We provide end‑to‑end support for business sales and purchases. Our team conducts thorough legal due diligence, reviews section 52 statements and manages asset or share transactions. We also assist with business succession planning, helping owners transition out of their businesses while safeguarding their legacy and financial security.
Why businesses choose us for commercial law
Specialist Expertise: Our team includes LIV Accredited Specialists in Commercial Litigation and Insolvency. This back-end expertise allows us to draft front-end contracts that are better equipped to withstand challenges.
Local Focus, Broad Reach: While we are deeply embedded in the Melbourne and Mount Waverley business communities, we act for SMEs and family enterprises throughout Victoria and interstate.
Collaborative Approach: We work closely with your accountants and financial advisers to ensure your legal, tax, and commercial strategies are perfectly aligned.
If your commercial dispute has already escalated, our commercial litigation and insolvency lawyers in Melbourne can help.
FAQs: Common questions about contracts, business transactions and commercial matters are answered below.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Law
How does a business and commercial lawyer help, and why choose HOCW?
A commercial lawyer helps you manage legal risk and make informed decisions at every stage of your business. HOCW helps you structure, document and manage your legal relationships so they support growth and protect value. We advise on how to set up and govern your business, how to put in place commercial agreements, and why meeting your regulatory obligations is essential for long‑term success.
When should I hire a commercial lawyer for my business?
You should engage a commercial lawyer when starting a new business, taking on investors, negotiating significant contracts, or buying and selling a business. Early advice helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures clear arrangements are in place between owners and key stakeholders.
What business structures can HOCW advise on?
We advise on the appropriate structure for your business, whether that is operating as a sole trader, company, partnership or trust (including discretionary or unit trusts). We consider factors such as asset protection, risk and tax implications, and often work with your accountant to ensure the structure fits your goals.
Do I need a lawyer to review my business contracts?
It is highly advisable for important contracts with suppliers, customers, landlords or investors. We draft and negotiate agreements to ensure they reflect your understanding of the deal, comply with the law and manage risk in a way that suits your business.
Do HOCW commercial lawyers work with my accountant or other advisers?
Yes. We often work closely with accountants, financial advisers and other professionals on structuring, transactions and succession planning. This collaborative approach ensures your legal, tax and commercial strategies are considered and aligned to protect your business interests.
Do you only act for clients in Melbourne and Mount Waverley?
No. Our commercial law team is based in Melbourne and Mount Waverley, but we act for clients throughout Victoria and interstate.
If you need advice about a business structure, commercial contract or commercial law issue, contact our Commercial Law team for clear, practical guidance on your next steps.
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Related Services
Commercial Litigation & Insolvency
If you are involved in a business or contractual dispute, facing unpaid debts or financial distress, our Commercial Litigation & Insolvency team can help you assess your position, manage risk and work towards a resolution.
Property & Conveyancing (business property)
If your commercial arrangements involve buying, selling or leasing business premises, our Property & Conveyancing team can assist with contracts, due diligence and leasing to support your broader commercial objectives.
Wills, Estates & Succession Planning (business owners)
If you are a business owner or director and want to plan for succession, incapacity or death, our Wills & Estates team can help you integrate your business, trust and SMSF arrangements into a clear succession and estate plan.
Employment related disputes (select matters)
If you are facing specific employment‑related disputes as an employer or employee (such as contract or restraint issues), our Commercial Litigation and Insolvency team can advise you on your options to resolve the matter efficiently.