Evan Avtzis

Expertise

Evan has practised exclusively in family law since his admission in early 2020, initially training with a multi‑disciplinary firm before moving to a national family law firm where he managed matters across Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland. He joined Hicks Oakley Chessell Williams at the start of 2024 and now advises clients on all aspects of separation, parenting arrangements and property settlements.

Evan takes a practical, pragmatic approach to family law, guiding clients through the often confusing and stressful process of parenting and property disputes with compassion and empathy. He focuses on empowering clients to make informed decisions, with a strong emphasis on clear litigation strategy where court proceedings are necessary. Having completed Interdisciplinary Collaborative Practice training, Evan can also offer clients a less adversarial, solutions‑focused way to resolve disputes, prioritising cooperation and minimising the emotional toll of traditional litigation.

A proficient advocate, Evan has appeared for clients in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria and in a range of alternative dispute resolution processes. He practises in all areas of family law, with particular expertise in property and parenting matters, high‑conflict parenting disputes, matters involving family violence and financial settlements involving complex asset structures. Evan also has substantial experience with Binding Financial Agreements, including drafting agreements and advising on applications to set them aside.

Evan’s gregarious personality and strong professional network, both within and outside HOCW, enable him to connect clients with the broader support they need, ensuring they receive holistic advice and tailored assistance throughout their matter.

About Evan

Outside of work, Evan enjoys travelling, sharing good food and drinks with friends, and closely following the English Premier League.

Evan is also committed to creating opportunities for those less fortunate, serving as company secretary of a local educational charity for over 11 years, where he helps manage a scholarship program for financially disadvantaged school students.

Qualifications

• Interdisciplinary Collaborative Practice training - MELCA Academy

• Bachelor of Arts – Monash University

• Bachelor of Laws – Monash University

• Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice – College of Law

• Accredited Specialist - Family Law – Law Institute of Victoria

Admissions

• Supreme Court of Victoria

• High Court of Australia

Memberships and Committees

• Law Institute of Victoria

Recent Testimonials

"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, December 2025

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"Divorce is a hard and trying time for all parties involved, the entire process can be quite overwhelming, however choosing the right lawyer is crucial considering what is at stake. 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. 

All the staff at Hicks Oakley Chessell Williams, from Evan Avtzis my lawyer, to Madison Crane, legal assistant and everyone in the background, thank you for all your hard work.”

Name withheld, Family Law Client, November 2025

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"From the time I came into the office and throughout the process, the team was very professional.

Guiding me through the potential options and the approach was critical in my partner and I reaching an amicable outcome. Explaining to me how the legal and court process works in each of the options was also front of mind as I approached each item with my partner. Going through the process can be emotional at times, but the team, especially Evan, was able to be empathetic but at the same time focus on the end game. The communications, both written and verbal was always prompt and included any follow up process if I wasn’t clear.

In my case, our financial situation was quite basic, and I could see more efficiency in the processes on both sides if there was better collaboration in the industry, therefore reducing costs and timeframes. One way to do this is for both parties to agree a format of the financial analysis and it be used as a reference so that both parties can input without judgement. I believe in our case this reduced a lot of tension and accelerated the outcome when the basic format was used and both parties were able to agree on the values/items. This could then be translated into the official documents.

I’d recommend HOCW to future clients as a professional and experienced firm, with an empathetic approach and considerations to both parties in the situation. The experience on how the courts and the legal process views each situation was key to removing the emotion and ensuring the best outcome for all parties involved.

Thank you again team for your support on this matter."

Sam, Family Law Client, January 2025

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"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, Sept 2024

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"I am so thankful for the help and support that I was provided by Evan and his team during my financial settlement. Evan was incredibly responsive, professional and made sure I was well informed and kept updated throughout the process. The team were extremely empathetic and understanding throughout, and I am grateful for all of the support they provided. I would highly recommend Evan and his team for family law matters." 

Name Withheld, Family Law Client, Sept 2024