Free tool
Family law cost estimator
“How much will this cost?” is the first thing almost everyone wants to know — and the hardest thing to find a straight answer to. This gives you a realistic range in seconds, in plain English, with no sign-up. If you’d rather just ask a person, Elisa is here — the first chat is free.
Worrying about money on top of everything else is completely normal — and you deserve a straight answer, not a runaround. Pick whatever sounds closest to your situation and you’ll get a realistic range straightaway. No sign-up, no email, no pressure.
Where these numbers come from
These ranges reflect real, current Melbourne costs in 2026 — the court filing fees set nationally by the Federal Circuit and Family Court, our own fixed fees for the work we scope up front, and typical market ranges for everything else. For the detail behind each figure, see the family lawyer cost guide, the divorce cost breakdown, and the consent orders cost guide. Our full fixed-fee packages are all set out in writing.
What’s always free, and always in writing
- ✓The first consultation is free — no obligation, no pressure.
- ✓Your costs are disclosed in writing before any work starts, under the Legal Profession Uniform Law — no surprises.
- ✓Victorian Legal Aid may reduce or cover your costs if you’re eligible — Elisa acts on Legal Aid grants directly.
Common questions about cost
How much does a family lawyer cost in Melbourne?
It depends far more on the path your matter takes than on any hourly rate. A divorce on its own is around $1,000–$2,000 in legal fees plus the $1,125 court fee. Formalising an agreement by consent orders is a fixed $2,750–$3,850. A negotiated property settlement typically runs $5,000–$15,000, while a contested court case can run from $40,000 upward. The estimator above gives you a realistic range for your situation.
Is the estimate a quote?
No. The ranges are there to help you plan and take some of the fear out of the unknown. Your actual cost depends on the specifics of your matter, and it is set out for you in writing under the Legal Profession Uniform Law before any work begins.
What's included in the free initial consultation?
Usually 30–45 minutes. You explain what's happening, get an honest read on where you stand and your realistic options, and a genuine cost estimate for your actual matter. No obligation to go further.
Does Victorian Legal Aid help with the cost?
It can. Victorian Legal Aid assists eligible people — generally lower-income earners and Centrelink recipients — and Elisa acts on Legal Aid grants directly. If cost is a worry, raise it at the consultation and we'll assess your eligibility.
Free Consultation
Want a real estimate for your matter?
Tell me briefly what's happening. The first conversation is free and confidential, and I'll give you an honest read on cost and the likely path.