Information Centre
Considered writing on the law that matters to Melbourne families.
Editorial guides, cornerstone explainers and practical resources on family law, wills and estates, probate and estate disputes, and criminal and traffic matters in Victoria. Written by the lawyers at Holt & Macdonald, from our Ringwood office.
Featured guides
Probate & Estate Disputes
What Is Probate and When Is It Required in Victoria?
A plain-English explanation of probate in Victoria — when a grant is required, when it may not be, the executor's role and the Supreme Court process.
Published 5 May 2026
Family Law
How Is Property Divided After Separation?
There is no automatic 50/50 rule. A guide to how Australian family law approaches property settlement after separation, including superannuation and time limits.
Published 7 May 2026
Wills & Estates
How to Make a Valid Will in Victoria
Capacity, signing and witnessing, choosing an executor, blended-family considerations and the real risks of informal or DIY wills in Victoria.
Published 12 May 2026
Browse by topic
Family Law
Practical guidance on separation, parenting arrangements, property settlement and related matters under Australian family law.
Wills & Estates
Guides on making a valid will, executor duties, estate planning and administering deceased estates in Victoria.
Probate & Estate Disputes
Applying for probate, letters of administration, and contested estate matters — including Part IV (family provision) claims in Victoria.
Criminal & Traffic
What to expect at the Magistrates' Court, common summary matters and traffic charges in Victoria.
Property & Commercial
Conveyancing, business sales, commercial contracts and related property matters across Melbourne's eastern suburbs.
Litigation & Disputes
Guidance on commercial, property and estate disputes, negotiation, mediation and court proceedings in Victoria.
Latest articles
Practical resources
Resource
Executor Checklist for Victoria
A staged, practical checklist for executors administering a deceased estate in Victoria — from the days after death through to final distribution.
Resource
Ringwood Magistrates' Court Practical Guide
A concise preparation checklist for anyone attending Ringwood Magistrates' Court — what to bring, arrival time, etiquette and questions to ask a lawyer.
Editorial guides in this Information Centre are written and reviewed by the lawyers at Holt & Macdonald / Parke Lawyers. Content is general in nature and is not a substitute for legal advice on your particular circumstances.
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