Ben Smith

Principal

Ben has been working exclusively in family law since 2000. He was admitted to practice in 2006 and in 2011, he became a Law Institute of Victoria Accredited Specialist in Family Law. Between 2015 and 2017 he was a partner at an established boutique family law firm.

Ben is a passionate advocate for clients and highly experienced in all facets of family and relationship law including complex parenting and property matters and intervention orders. He also has extensive knowledge and experience in surrogacy law and assisting families through the legal process.

When working with clients, his focus is on providing advice that clearly lays out the path ahead. He is upfront and honest so that his clients understand the process and make the best possible decisions for their future. He works in close partnership with his clients as he believes this helps achieve excellent results.

Ben sits on the Lawyers Panel at Relationships Australia Victoria. The RAV Lawyers Panel comprises lawyers who specialise in family law and have experience in family dispute resolution. 

Before working in the city, Ben spent several years working in Williamstown and he calls the western suburbs of Melbourne home. He is happy to travel to our western suburban locations (Williamstown and Sunshine) as needed.

When he is not at work, Ben is spending time with friends and family. He is also an avid sports fan, in particular AFL (Western Bulldogs!) and basketball.

Memberships

  • Accredited Family Law Specialist (LIV)
  • Member of the Family Law Section of the Law Institute of Victoria
  • Member of the Family Law Section of the Law Council of Australia
  • Western Suburbs Law Association

Recent articles by Ben

How are future needs considered in family law property settlement?

How are future needs considered in family law property settlement?

Following the breakdown of a marriage or de facto relationship, often a property settlement will need to take place to divide the assets of the relationship. One crucial factor the Court will need to determine is what are the future needs of each of the parties.
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How does mediation work in family law matters?

How does mediation work in family law matters?

When the issues in question are as important as your children, wellbeing, or home, it is important that you are at the forefront of the decision-making process. Mediation is one of several alternative dispute resolution processes in family law which can provide a forum for both parties to negotiate their options and reach an agreed resolution.
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National Contravention List to enforce Family Court Parenting and Financial Orders

National Contravention List to enforce Family Court Orders

If someone intentionally fails to comply with Family Court Parenting Orders or Financial Orders, or makes no reasonable attempt to comply, the other party may make an application seeking to deal with the non-compliance. This is called a contravention application.
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Difference between parenting plans and parenting orders

Parenting plans vs parenting orders

Generally speaking, parenting plans are entered into in a less formal way and are cheaper than parenting orders. They are not, however, legally enforceable.
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