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

Children, medical decisions and family law in Victoria - Smith Family Law, Melbourne

Children, medical decisions and family law in Victoria

When separated parents in Victoria can't agree on a major medical procedure for their child, the Court may need to step in. This article explains what the law says about parental consent, Gillick competency and how these disputes are resolved in family law proceedings.
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Material wastage in family law property matters

Material wastage in family law property matters

In family law property settlements, the way Courts deal with wasted or disposed-of assets has changed. The focus is now on existing assets and whether one party has engaged in material wastage of financial resources.
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Family & Psychological Reports | Family Law Parenting

Family & Psychological Reports | Family Law Parenting

This blog explains the different types of assessments used in family law, including Child Impact Reports, Full Family Reports and psychological evaluations, and outlines when the Court may order them and what parents can expect.
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Who gets to stay in the house after separation?

Who gets to stay in the house after separation?

For many people, the house is the most valuable asset and represents stability. Deciding who should leave the home after separation isn’t always straightforward. In this article, we break down your options and when the Court can step in.
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