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Civil and Commercial Litigation Lawyers Melbourne
Resolving Disputes With Strategic Clarity and Courtroom
Experience Since 1966
Strong Advocacy When It Matters Most
Disputes disrupt lives and threaten business stability. Whether you’re dealing with unpaid debts, a contract breach, professional negligence, or an urgent injunction, you need a legal team that understands both the law and the stakes. At Kelly & Chapman, we represent clients in civil and commercial litigation across Victoria with a focus on strategic, cost-effective outcomes.
Since 1966,
we’ve helped individuals, businesses, and professionals resolve disputes quickly through negotiation, mediation or, when required, with skilled courtroom advocacy. We act with speed, precision and a clear plan to protect your interests.
Civil & Commercial Litigation
Is the area of law involving court-based resolution of disputes between individuals, businesses or other entities.
Includes breach of contract, unpaid debts, property disputes, business conflicts and professional liability claims.
May be resolved through negotiation, mediation, arbitration or court proceedings in VCAT, Magistrates’, County or Supreme Courts.
Requires strict compliance with legal procedures, timelines and evidentiary rules.
Relies on clear legal argument, document preparation, risk assessment and strategic litigation planning.
Why Choose Our Litigation Lawyers
At Kelly & Chapman, we focus on achieving early, favourable outcomes while being fully prepared to take matters to trial if necessary. Our team offers a rare combination of courtroom experience, negotiation skills, and practical commercial judgment.
We provide:
- Clear advice on prospects and risks
- Cost estimates and updates at every stage
- Court document preparation and representation
- Strategic settlement negotiations
- Representation at VCAT, Magistrates’, County and Supreme Court levels
We serve clients across Oakleigh, Chadstone, Carnegie, Clayton, Bentleigh and throughout Melbourne’s southeast.
Signs You Need a Civil or Commercial Litigation Lawyer
1. A Contract Has Been Breached
Whether a supplier failed to deliver, a customer refused to pay, or a partnership fell apart, we assess your contract, gather evidence and initiate legal action to enforce your rights or defend your position.
2. You’re Owed a Significant Debt
We assist with debt recovery through:
• Letters of demand
• Court claims
• Enforcement orders
• Bankruptcy or winding-up proceedings
We help recover what you’re owed efficiently and professionally.
3. You’re Involved in a Property, Leasing or Ownership Dispute
Property-related litigation includes:
• Commercial lease disputes
• Unpaid rent or bond issues
• Building defect claims
• Co-owner or boundary disagreements
• Title or caveat disputes
We act for landlords, tenants, co-owners and developers to resolve disputes decisively.
4. A Business Relationship Has Broken Down
We handle:
• Shareholder and director disputes
• Joint venture collapses
• Partnership disagreements
• Breach of fiduciary duty claims
• Commercial misrepresentation or fraud
We protect your business position while minimising financial and reputational damage.
5. You’re Being Sued — or Need to Sue
If you’ve been served with a claim or need to initiate one, we handle all stages of litigation, including:
• Pleadings and evidence
• Court appearances and directions hearings
• Discovery and subpoenas
• Mediation and settlement conferences
• Trial preparation and hearing representation
We manage your case from start to finish with professionalism and focus.
Our Litigation Process
Case Assessment
We assess your legal position, evidence, and objectives. We give you clear advice on whether to proceed and the risks involved.
Legal Strategy
We map out the best approach — whether immediate court action, negotiation, or alternative dispute resolution.
Document Preparation
We draft claims, defences, affidavits, subpoenas, or any required documents tailored to your case and jurisdiction.
Representation
We represent you in all court appearances or VCAT hearings, and liaise with barristers where appropriate.
Resolution & Enforcement
Whether your matter settles or proceeds to judgment, we assist with enforcement orders, appeals or cost recovery.
Why Kelly & Chapman for Dispute Resolution
Disputes are stressful — we make them manageable. Our litigation lawyers offer:
Over 50 years of courtroomand negotiation experience
Multilingual support: We speak Greek, Croatian, Bosnian and Serbian
A clear roadmap from the outset, including costs and timelines
Practical focus: We prioritise outcomes, not arguments
Representation at all Victorian court levels and tribunals
Client-first service: You speak directly to your lawyer — no call centres or intermediaries
Civil & Commercial Litigation Services Without the Legal Headache
• Breach of contract claims
• Debt recovery and enforcement
• Shareholder, partnership and director disputes
• Business and franchise litigation
• Consumer law claims (ACL breaches)
• Misleading and deceptive conduct claims
• Lease and property-related litigation
• Professional negligence claims
• Injunctions and urgent applications
• VCAT disputes
• Magistrates’, County and Supreme Court litigation
• Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), mediation and settlement
What Our Clients Say
We needed to have our wills written.Our experience with Misko was a positive one. He executed with understanding and professionalism. I will not hesitate to enlist his expertise when I next needed a lawyer.
Susan managed the sale of our home and purchase of our new property. She was extremely efficient and professional following up on issues promptly and even outside business hrs.
For the emotional task of finalising my late husband's estate, the staff at Kelly and Chapman were outstanding, caring and professional - thankyou
Personalized service that meets the clients needs. Going through a new property build and Susan has been a life saver and looked out for my best interests, thus easing my mind. Highly recommended.
Highly recommended for conveyancing. Susan and the team were very easy to keep in contact with through the whole process. She gave us advice on contracts before we put in offers, which was incredibly valuable to us.
Misko was a great help in guiding our large family through the processes of our mothers. . He displayed the knowledge we required and patience we needed, even dealing with my very basic zoom knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Litigation
Can I recover legal costs if I win a court case?
Usually yes — but it depends on the court, type of case, and the judge’s discretion. We guide you on cost risk at every stage.
How long does a civil case take?
Anywhere from a few weeks (for small claims) to over a year (for complex matters). We work to resolve your matter as early and efficiently as possible.
What’s the difference between VCAT and the court?
VCAT is more informal and often faster. We advise on which forum is appropriate for your dispute.
Do I have to go to court?
Not always. Many disputes are resolved through letters, negotiation or mediation. But if the court is necessary, we’re fully equipped to represent you.
Is there a time limit for starting a claim?
Yes — usually 6 years for contract claims and less for others. Early legal advice is crucial.
Speak to a Litigation Lawyer Today
If you’re involved in a dispute or believe one is coming, speak to us early — the right legal move now can avoid major problems later.
Contact Kelly & Chapman Lawyers
Serving clients across Melbourne’s southeast, including East Brighton, Brighton , Cheltenham, Caulfield, Hampton Oakleigh, Malvern East, Clayton, Chadstone, Bentleigh and Carnegie.
Kelly & Chapman Lawyers
Legal support that’s clear, local and truly on your side.
Hours:
Mon - Fri (9 am - 5pm)
Free Parking Available
©Copyright Kelly & Chapman Lawyers 2025 • Privacy Policy
Kelly & Chapman Lawyers
Legal support that’s clear, local and truly on your side.
Hours:
Mon - Fri (9 am - 5pm)
Free Parking Available
©Copyright Kelly & Chapman Lawyers 2025 • Privacy Policy