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Family Law

Our family lawyers in Melbourne and Mount Waverley provide clear, practical advice on separation, divorce, parenting arrangements and property settlements. We help you understand your rights and options, work towards child‑focused and commercially sensible outcomes, and document agreements or represent you in court when required.

How we work with you

We understand that relationship breakdowns are stressful and emotional, and that you may be unsure where to start. Our team takes the time to listen to your circumstances, explain the law in straightforward terms and outline your options, including negotiation, mediation and, where necessary, court proceedings. We focus on protecting children from conflict, preserving assets where possible and helping you move forward with confidence.

Looking at the whole picture

Family law issues often involve more than one area at the same time, such as parenting, property, spousal maintenance, superannuation and family violence. We work with you to prioritise urgent concerns like safety and living arrangements, then address longer‑term questions about housing, finances and care of children. Where appropriate, we collaborate with your other professional advisers, including counsellors, financial planners and accountants, so that your legal strategy supports your broader personal and financial goals.

Our family law experience

Our family lawyers regularly advise on parenting arrangements, child support, relocation, de facto relationships, and family law advice for grandparents and other family members. We have experience in both straightforward and complex property settlements, including matters involving family businesses, trusts, self‑managed superannuation funds and inheritances. Whether your matter can be resolved by agreement or requires court intervention, we assist with drafting and reviewing documents, representing you in negotiations and appearing on your behalf in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

Resolving disputes efficiently

Where possible, we aim to resolve disputes without going to court by using negotiation, mediation and other forms of alternative dispute resolution. These approaches can reduce cost and delay, minimise stress and help preserve important family relationships, particularly where parents will need to communicate about children for many years to come. If court proceedings are required, we provide realistic advice about likely timeframes, costs and outcomes, and guide you through each step so you feel supported and informed.

Need support with a family law issue?

Contact our team today for confidential, practical advice.

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Testimonials

From the moment that I met with Evan I knew I was in the right hands. His professionalism and demeanor won me over immediately, which is why he came highly recommended. Evan always made me feel heard and comfortable with what my needs were every step of the way. He was always there when I needed him, he always responded promptly either via phone or email regardless of how busy he was, I always felt like he was working just for me, even though I know his plate was full. His professionalism was always apparent, and he knew how to keep me calm during the difficult times.

Name withheld - Family Law Client

Evan was an excellent family lawyer and a crucial support throughout my case. Referred to by a friend, choosing him was one of the best decisions I made. He had a remarkable ability to calm my nerves and made me feel completely unjudged. I trusted him completely due to his patience, empathy, and meticulous attention to detail from the very beginning. He listened carefully, explained complex matters clearly (often repeating them as needed due to my state of mind), and simplified everything right down for me. His consistent reassurance and guidance through each new development were invaluable during my time of anxiety. I couldn't recommend him highly enough. At HOCW, my experience remained exceptional. I received clear, actionable advice throughout, which significantly contributed to a smooth and reassuring legal process. Madison, who also assisted with my case, was incredibly kind, approachable, and responsive to all my emails and inquiries. She handled my files with great care and clarity, which was especially important to me during a period of uncertainty and stress. I am deeply grateful for the support and assistance provided by both Madison and Evan throughout this legal journey.

M.A. - Family Law Client

I am delighted with my whole Hicks Oakley Chessell Williams experience and would have no hesitation in recommending and referring your expertise. Thanks again for your collective determination in achieving a most successful financial outcome.

Geoff, Mulgrave - Family Law Client

Working with Evan, Demi and the HOCW team on my family law matter made an incredibly difficult time feel far less overwhelming. From the very beginning, I felt genuinely heard, understood and cared for and I am deeply grateful for the compassion they showed me at every step. The process was clear and well-explained from start to finish, which gave me a huge sense of reassurance during a period when I needed it most. Their kindness, patience and steady guidance helped me stay grounded throughout and I truly felt that my best interests were always at the forefront.

I am especially grateful for the way they handled my matter with diligence, attention to detail and a thoughtful, considered approach that never felt rushed. They kept me informed, involved, and confident in each decision we made together. I cannot express enough appreciation for the professionalism and expertise they brought to my case.

I would wholeheartedly recommend Evan and Demi to anyone needing family law support.

CK - Family Law Client

Let me take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks as I don’t know how I would have got to where I am today, without you. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending you and your team at Hicks Oakley Chessell Williams.

Jane, Mordialloc - Family Law Client
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