Property Settlement Lawyers in Melbourne

Achieve fair and equitable division of assets with expert legal guidance

Understanding Property Settlement in Victoria

Property settlement is often the most complex financial aspect of separation and divorce in Melbourne. In Victoria, the Family Law Act 1975 provides a framework for dividing assets and liabilities fairly between separating couples. Our directory connects you with experienced property settlement lawyers in Melbourne who can protect your financial interests and ensure a just outcome.

What's Included in Property Settlement

Real Estate

  • • Family home
  • • Investment properties
  • • Holiday homes
  • • Land and development sites

Financial Assets

Personal Property

  • • Vehicles and boats
  • • Jewelry and collectibles
  • • Furniture and household items
  • • Tools and equipment

Liabilities

  • • Mortgages
  • • Personal loans
  • • Credit card debts
  • • Tax obligations

The Four-Step Process

Australian courts follow a four-step process when determining property settlements:

  1. 1

    Identify Assets & Liabilities

    Determine all property, assets, and debts of both parties, including those held separately or jointly.

  2. 2

    Assess Contributions

    Evaluate financial and non-financial contributions made by each party throughout the relationship, including homemaker contributions in Melbourne family law.

  3. 3

    Consider Future Needs

    Account for factors like age, health, earning capacity, and care of children when determining future needs.

  4. 4

    Just & Equitable

    Ensure the proposed settlement is just and equitable for both parties in all circumstances.

Important Considerations

Time Limits

You have 12 months from the date of divorce in Melbourne (or 2 years from separation for de facto couples in Melbourne) to apply for property orders. Extensions are possible but difficult to obtain.

Superannuation Splitting

Superannuation is treated as property and can be split between parties. Special valuation methods and superannuation splitting orders in Melbourne apply.

Binding Financial Agreements

Couples can enter binding financial agreements in Melbourne before, during, or after a relationship to determine property division.

Disclosure Obligations

Both parties must provide full and frank financial disclosure in Melbourne family law of all assets and liabilities. Failure to disclose can result in orders being set aside.

Factors Affecting Property Division

Financial Contributions

  • • Income and earnings
  • • Property brought into relationship
  • • Inheritances and gifts
  • • Business development

Non-Financial Contributions

Important Note

Property settlement is complex and outcomes vary based on individual circumstances. The information provided here is general in nature. For advice specific to your situation, consult with a qualified property settlement lawyer in Melbourne from our directory.

Find Property Settlement Lawyers in Melbourne

Complete Family Law Support

Family law matters often overlap. Our network of experienced lawyers across Melbourne, Geelong, and all Victorian suburbs can assist with all aspects of your case.

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Our directory includes experienced family lawyers in Melbourne and throughout Victoria. Whether you're in the city or regional areas, find qualified property settlement legal help near you.

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Connect with experienced property settlement lawyers in Melbourne who will fight for your fair share

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