Property and financial matters

At Carew Counsel, our team draw on more than 40 years of family law experience to resolve even the most complex property and financial matters. We combine specialist legal expertise with a compassionate, practical approach that helps you secure fair outcomes.

Carew Counsel awarded Doyle family law firm of 2021Carew Counsel awarded Doyle family law firm of 2022Carew Counsel awarded Doyle family law firm of 2023
Two of our Melbourne property dispute lawyers in a consultation with a client at our offices.
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Specialist family law firm

We have 40+ years of experience dealing with family law matters.

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Client focused

Get the help, guidance, and legal support you need to move forward.

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Commendable service

We’re ranked in the top five family law firms in Melbourne.

Open and upfront

We will clearly outline expectations and a quote for legal fees following your initial consultation.

Peter Carew, our director, hard at work in our Melbourne offices, where you can work with our property lawyers.

Speak to our experienced legal team

Property and financial issues are often the most challenging part of separation, and the outcomes can shape your future security. Carew Counsel's lawyers are accredited specialists with deep experience in resolving everything from straightforward settlements to complex disputes involving companies, trusts, or overseas assets. We guide you through negotiation, mediation, and, where necessary, court proceedings, ensuring you understand each step and have the strongest possible representation.

Recognised among the top five family law firms in Melbourne, Carew Counsel has built a reputation for combining specialist expertise with genuine care for our clients. If you're facing a property settlement or financial dispute, book a consultation and gain the support of a team that'll prioritise your wellbeing and your future.

Our awards and memberships

AMDRAS Accredited Mediator logo.
Support across every stage of your financial matters

How we can help

When separation involves property or money, there is rarely a single issue to resolve. The right lawyer can guide you through the full range of financial arrangements, from planning ahead with agreements to resolving disputes when they arise to making sure ongoing support is fair. At Carew Counsel, we offer a comprehensive suite of property and financial services so you know every aspect of your situation is covered.

Practical solutions tailored to your needs

Resolving your property and financial matters

Our team takes a step-by-step approach that starts with listening to your circumstances and ends with working towards the best possible outcome for you. Here is how we support you through the process.

Discuss your case with a lawyer

We begin with a detailed conversation about your situation, so we can understand your priorities, explain your legal rights, and map out the most suitable options for moving forward.We begin with a detailed conversation about your situation, so we can understand your priorities, explain your legal rights, and map out the most suitable options for moving forward.

We’ll gather the financial and property information you need

Accurate information is the foundation of any settlement or dispute. We help you collect the documents, valuations, and records needed to give a clear picture of your assets and liabilities.

If needed, we can enter into negotiations on your behalf

Many cases are resolved without going to court. We represent you in negotiations and mediations, aiming to reach fair agreements that protect your interests while minimising stress and cost.

We’ll work to resolve your property or financial case efficiently

Our focus is always on timely and practical outcomes. Whether through agreement or litigation, we work to finalise your matter as efficiently as possible, so you can move on with confidence.

Book a free 15 minute callback

Get started by discussing your situation with a family law expert.

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Female counsellor in a black blazer smiling during a face-to-face consultation, holding a pen and speaking with a client across a desk.

Why choose Carew Counsel

Tailored strategies for complex financial structures

From family businesses to trusts and overseas property, we design strategies that fit your unique financial circumstances and safeguard your long-term interests.

Clear communication at every stage

We explain every step in plain English, so you always understand your rights, options, and the progress of your case without unnecessary legal jargon.

Strong track record in negotiation and mediation

Many disputes can be resolved without going to court. Our lawyers are skilled negotiators who focus on reaching fair agreements that save you time, stress, and expense.

Transparent and fair fee structures

We believe in honesty from the outset. Our approach to fees is upfront and transparent, giving you confidence in both the process and the cost.

success stories

Client testimonials

The strongest measure of our work comes from the people we have supported. Here are some of the experiences our clients have shared about working with Carew Counsel.

"I highly recommend Carew Counsel Solicitors for anyone seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable solicitor for family law matters."

Shawn C
Melbourne

"Carew Counsel team was recommended to me by one of my friends and my case was handled by Keleigh and her team very efficiently, with quick replies, flexibility to change requests and professionally. I am highly recommending them to their future clients and can only thank them with this review for their great work."

Frank F
Melbourne

"In what was a difficult time to go through, I'm thankful that I had the team at Carew in my corner. I received sound advice all the way through the process and felt proud of the dignified way that my case was being responded to."

Scott M
Melbourne

"10 Stars! Very happy & relieved that I chose Carew Counsel for a family member in an extremely concerning & complicated Family Court/child protection matter. Highly professional, ethical, respectful, knowledgeable, hardworking, strategic, collaborative, communicative, caring, compassionate & child & family welfare focused. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping us protect our little child."

C Swan
Melbourne

"To the Carew Counsel team. I would like to thank you all for your interest, professionalism, and humanity. You enabled a very stressful process to be handled with diligence and care. I am very grateful to you all for assisting me with this. Most of all, a big thank you to you Jenni Mooney, for your competence, professionalism and humour. Because of you, the process was as least stressful as feasibly possible. My heart goes out to you. Carew Counsel are lucky to have you. All the best to you all."

L Boon
Melbourne

"10 Stars! Very happy & relieved that I chose Carew Counsel for a family member in an extremely concerning & complicated Family Court/child protection matter. Highly professional, ethical, respectful, knowledeable, hard working, strategic, collaborative, communicative, caring, compassionate & child & family welfare focused. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping us protect our little child."

Cygnet S
Melbourne

"I would like to thank and acknowledge all the team at Carew Counsel Solicitors for representing me in my recent financial settlement matter. I highly recommend that you engage Carew Counsel Solicitors to represent you in your family law matter."

Frank G
Melbourne

"Across my two year fight to save my son from serious harm, Alex Carew was there every step of the way. His wisdom, professionalism, empathy, meticulous notes, and steadfast negotiation yielded a result which will protect my son now, and for years to come. I can't recommend him and his firm highly enough."

James H
Melbourne

"To the Carew Counsel team. I would like to thank you all for your interest, professionalism, and humanity. You enabled a very stressful process to be handled with diligence and care. I am very grateful to you all for assisting me with this."

Lisa B
Melbourne
Meet the team

Meet Carew Counsel's team

Our Melbourne office

Located in the heart of Melbourne’s legal and business precinct, Carew Counsel Solicitors provides discreet, professional family law support in a calm and confidential environment.

Why visit our Melbourne office?

  • Centrally located for convenient access across metropolitan Melbourne
  • Private, professional meeting spaces designed for sensitive conversations
  • Direct access to experienced family lawyers and accredited specialists

Visit us

Level 10, 313 La Trobe Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000

Phone

Call us on 03 9071 3119

Business hours

Mon – Fri, 9 am – 5:30 pm

Parking

Wilson Parking on La Trobe St

Payment options

Level 10, 313 La Trobe Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000

Frequently asked questions

Our FAQs have been carefully prepared and reviewed by our lawyers to give you clear, practical answers. Each response is designed to offer genuine insight and guidance, helping you make informed decisions with confidence.

What is the difference between property lawyers and family law property lawyers in Melbourne?

A team of property lawyers usually focuses on transactions and ownership matters, while family law property lawyers step in when a relationship ends and assets need to be divided. Both are valuable, but their goals and expertise are different.

You can think of it this way:

Property lawyers

  • Handle expert property dealings like conveyancing, leasing, and real estate transactions.
  • Advise on Australian property development, contracts, easements, and strata matters.
  • Work across a wide range of practice areas, often protecting commercial or investment interests.

Family law property lawyers

  • Resolve disputes about how assets and finances are divided after separation or divorce.
  • Advise on property settlements, superannuation splits, and spousal maintenance considerations.
  • Often work alongside divorce lawyers or separation and de facto lawyers to provide a complete family law service.

In short, property lawyers focus on transactions and ownership, while family law property lawyers focus on fair division and financial security after relationships break down.

How much does it cost to work with property lawyers in Melbourne?

The cost of working with a property lawyer in Melbourne depends on the type of matter you need help with and how complex it becomes. Some cases are relatively straightforward, while others involve significant time, research, or negotiation.

Typical factors that influence cost include:

  • Buying or selling property: Both purchasers and sellers may need advice on contracts, settlement, and related costs like stamp duty.
  • New developments: Off-the-plan projects or those involving compulsory acquisition often require more detailed advice to protect the landowner's interests.
  • Disputes: Issues such as encroachment, easement disagreements, or challenges with a body corporate can extend the scope of work.
  • Ongoing property relationships: Conflicts between tenants and landlords or with neighbours may lead to negotiations or even formal proceedings.
  • Title restrictions: Matters involving a covenant or other title conditions can add complexity and require specialised legal input.

Because every case is different, costs will vary. What remains consistent is that a property lawyer can help you avoid costly mistakes, reduce risk, and give you clear advice tailored to your situation.

Do I need a lawyer for financial agreements?

While some people try to manage financial agreements themselves, having a lawyer is the safest way to make sure your arrangements are legally binding and enforceable. Without proper advice, an agreement may not stand up in court if a disagreement arises later.

  • Explain whether a caveat or other protective step is needed to secure property interests.
  • Ensure the agreement reflects both parties’ rights and responsibilities fairly.
  • Draft terms that lead to a more favourable outcome and reduce the risk of future disputes.
  • Provide independent advice so the agreement complies with family law requirements and is less likely to be challenged.

Financial agreements can affect property, superannuation, and future claims, so it is worth having them prepared or reviewed professionally. If you are considering one, contact us today or contact our office to discuss your situation with a specialist lawyer.

Insights to guide your next steps

Blogs and resources

Explore our latest articles, guides, and updates on property and financial law. Our experienced lawyers review our resources to give you practical advice and helpful perspectives when navigating separation and financial matters.

Our Melbourne office

03 9670 5711
Level 10, 313 La Trobe Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Mon – Fri, 9 am – 5:30 pm
Wilson Parking on La Trobe St
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