Annette Lakey. Principal.
When you’re going through a separation, divorce, dividing assets or a parenting dispute, the last thing you want is a lawyer who is going to draw the process out.
Unlike most family lawyers, Annette is also an accredited mediator. Where possible we work to find a resolution outside of the courts. It is only when this isn’t achievable or realistic, that we will advise you to go to court.
Family law matters by their very nature are traumatic and painful. We see our role as helping you navigate the many legal considerations, and ultimately reach the best possible outcome, as quickly as possible.
Over the last 20+ years, we’ve helped thousands of families to reach resolution and move forward with their lives.
We listen and we care. We see it as our role to help you reach the best possible outcome, quickly and cost-effectively, so that you can move forward with your life.
I’ve dedicated over 20 years to helping people resolve all types of family law issues. I’m a qualified family lawyer, mediator and experienced litigator, supported by a team of experienced family law professionals.
Our focus is on finding resolution. Where possible we look to achieve this outside of the courts. But when that is the only option, our focus remains the same.
A reasonable fee structure, combined with a focus on resolution, can mean that our advice and representation is far more cost-effective than most other family lawyers.
I was born and bred in country Victoria and will always be a country girl at heart. I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a lawyer and help people. So, after finishing school I moved to the ‘big smoke’ and completed a combined Arts Law degree at Monash University, graduating with Honours in Law.
I spent a few years practicing in regional Victoria, before I moved back to the city to further develop my skills and experience in family law. I was fortunate enough to be mentored by some of the leaders in the field.
I then went on to practice in family law in mid-tier firms in both Brisbane and Melbourne. It was during this time, where I saw many, many families dragged through the courts unnecessarily, that I began to look for more amicable ways to help my clients find resolution. I studied Mediation at Bond University and in 2012 became an Accredited Mediator.
This has allowed me to help many of my clients resolve their issues quickly and amicably, and far more cost-effectively. It allows them to reach agreement and make the decisions, rather than leave it in the hands of the courts. And, it usually means a better outcome for all involved.
In 2015 I established Lakey Law, a full service Family Law and Mediation practice that works to find the best possible outcome for all involved. I also volunteer my time at the Fitzroy Legal Service Family Law Clinic.
After graduating from Deakin University with a Bachelor of Laws and Commerce, Brooke chose to undertake her Practical Legal Training placement at Lakey Family Law which she found to be both engaging and fulfilling.
She then joined the firm on a permanent basis in April 2021 and was admitted to practise as a solicitor in June 2021 after obtaining her Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from the College of Law.
Andrew has had a professional relationship with Annette Lakey for over 20 years and is now Special Counsel to the firm. He has extensive experience in all aspects of Family Law including complex property and children matters, primarily at Partnership or Principal level.
Sensitive to the needs of his clients, Andrew aims to resolve his clients matters through negotiation and mediation, only resorting to litigation when necessary and appropriate.
Your first point of contact will most likely be Alex who will make you feel at ease as she is sympathetic and confidential.
Specialising in family law, Alex works in all facets of paralegal support, working closely with the Lakey Family Law team and maintaining strong client relationships. Alex has worked in small and mid-tier firms, but finds the culture of boutique practices to be far more fulfilling.
The advice, support, negotiation and representation you need to get through your separation and divorce as quickly and as amicably as possible.
Reach agreement and document parenting arrangements through advice, negotiation, mediation or court representation if need be.
From Pre-Nuptial Agreements to Post Separation Agreements – we can help you negotiate and prepare a Financial Agreement at any stage of a relationship.
Finalise a fair property settlement and financial arrangement, quickly and efficiently with advice, mediation, negotiation and representation.
Avoid ugly family, parenting and property disputes by tackling issues through mediation and negotiation over and above litigation.
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