Strategic Legal Solutions for What Matters Most
For over 28 years, Thornbury & Vance has provided clear-headed, results-driven legal counsel to Melbourne businesses and individuals. We combine deep expertise with a personal approach — because every case deserves a partner, not just a lawyer.
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🕐 Free 30-Minute Consultation ⚖️ Speak With a Specialist Lawyer Today
A Legacy of Trust and Results
Founded in 1998 by partners James Thornbury and Victoria Vance, our firm was built on the belief that excellent legal representation should be accessible, transparent, and genuinely collaborative.
Today, our team of 14 specialist lawyers continues that tradition. We invest in understanding your situation thoroughly before we act, because the right strategy from the outset saves time, cost, and stress. Our Collins Street office is a reflection of our approach — professional, welcoming, and designed for frank, productive conversations.
- ✓Accredited specialists across six practice areas
- ✓Fixed-fee arrangements available for most matters
- ✓Multilingual team — English, Mandarin, Italian, Greek
- ✓Secure client portal for 24/7 document access
Facing a legal matter? Speak with a Thornbury & Vance lawyer — your first 30 minutes are free.
Comprehensive Legal Expertise
Our team of specialist lawyers covers a broad range of practice areas, delivering strategic advice tailored to your circumstances.
Commercial Law
Business structuring, contracts, M&A, partnerships, and corporate governance for businesses at every stage of growth.
Discuss Your Matter →Property & Conveyancing
Residential and commercial property transactions, development, leasing, and disputes handled with meticulous care.
Discuss Your Matter →Employment Law
Workplace disputes, unfair dismissal, enterprise agreements, and employer advisory for individuals and businesses.
Discuss Your Matter →Litigation & Disputes
Commercial and civil litigation, mediation, and alternative dispute resolution with a track record of favourable outcomes.
Discuss Your Matter →Wills & Estate Planning
Wills, powers of attorney, estate administration, and succession planning to protect your family's future.
Discuss Your Matter →Family Law
Separation, divorce, property settlements, parenting arrangements, and mediation handled with sensitivity and discretion.
Discuss Your Matter →More Than Legal Advice
Every engagement is backed by the systems, transparency, and senior attention that set us apart.
Accredited Specialists
Lawyers accredited by the Law Institute of Victoria across our core areas.
Fixed-Fee Options
Transparent pricing on conveyancing, wills, and many commercial matters.
Senior Partner Access
You deal directly with experienced partners, not junior delegates.
Confidential & Discreet
Every matter handled with complete discretion and secure record-keeping.
Plain-English Advice
No jargon. We explain your options clearly so you can decide with confidence.
Responsive Service
Calls and emails returned same business day. You're never left wondering.
Courtroom Experience
Decades of advocacy across Victorian and Federal courts and tribunals.
Multilingual Team
Advice in English, Mandarin, Italian, and Greek.
Why Clients Choose Thornbury & Vance
We've built our reputation on clear advice, genuine partnership, and results that hold up under pressure.
1Strategy Before Action
We invest the time to understand your situation fully before recommending a path — the right strategy from the outset saves cost and stress.
2Transparent Pricing
Fixed-fee arrangements wherever possible, and a clear estimate before any work begins. No surprise invoices, ever.
3Senior Attention
Your matter is led by an experienced partner who knows your file — not handed off to a rotating cast of juniors.
4Proven Track Record
4,500+ matters resolved across commercial, property, employment, litigation, estate, and family law.
5A True Partner
We measure success by your outcome and your confidence along the way — 97% of our clients say they'd recommend us.
How We Work With You
From your first call to resolution, we keep the process clear, collaborative, and free of surprises.
Free Consultation
Tell us about your matter in a no-obligation 30-minute meeting. We'll outline your options and where you stand.
Strategy & Quote
We propose a clear strategy and a transparent fee estimate — fixed-fee wherever possible — before any work begins.
Resolution
Your dedicated partner manages your matter to resolution, keeping you informed and in control at every stage.
Commercial Law That Protects Your Business
From start-up structuring to complex acquisitions, our commercial team gives you the clarity and protection to grow with confidence. We draft and negotiate the contracts that underpin your business, advise on governance and risk, and step in decisively when disputes arise.
- ✓Business structuring & shareholder agreements
- ✓Mergers, acquisitions & due diligence
- ✓Commercial contracts & leasing
Estate Planning & Family Law, Handled With Care
The most personal legal matters deserve the most thoughtful counsel. Whether you're protecting your family's future with a comprehensive estate plan or navigating a separation, our team brings sensitivity, discretion, and decades of experience to your side.
- ✓Wills, powers of attorney & succession planning
- ✓Separation, divorce & property settlements
- ✓Parenting arrangements & mediation
The Thornbury & Vance Difference
With over 28 years of practice, accredited specialists across six disciplines, and a genuine commitment to client partnership, we bring a rare blend of expertise, integrity, and approachability to every matter we take on.
- ✓Direct access to senior partners
- ✓Clear, plain-English advice — no jargon
- ✓Same-day responsiveness on calls and emails
What Our Clients Say
Thornbury & Vance guided us through a complex commercial acquisition with incredible precision. Their attention to detail and strategic thinking saved us from several potential pitfalls. Truly exceptional counsel.
After a difficult employment dispute, the team achieved a result that exceeded our expectations. They were thorough, responsive, and genuinely cared about the outcome.
We've trusted Thornbury & Vance with our family's estate planning for over a decade. They make complex legal matters feel straightforward and always take the time to explain every option clearly.
Professional, discreet, and highly effective. They handled our property settlement with remarkable efficiency and kept us informed at every stage. Could not recommend them more highly.
The litigation team is outstanding. They built an airtight case and achieved a favourable settlement well ahead of schedule. Their courtroom presence is second to none.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Book a free 30-minute consultation and one of our specialist lawyers will tell you exactly where you stand and what your options are — no obligation, no jargon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an initial consultation cost?
Your first consultation is free. We offer a complimentary 30-minute meeting to understand your situation and provide preliminary advice. There is no obligation to proceed.
Do you offer fixed-fee arrangements?
Yes. For many matters — including conveyancing, wills, and straightforward commercial transactions — we offer fixed-fee pricing so you know exactly what to expect. We always discuss fees transparently before any work begins.
What areas of law do you cover?
Our six core practice areas are commercial law, property & conveyancing, employment law, litigation & disputes, wills & estate planning, and family law. If your matter falls outside these areas, we can refer you to a trusted specialist.
How long will my matter take?
Timeframes vary depending on the nature and complexity of your matter. At your initial consultation, we'll provide a realistic timeline and keep you updated at every stage. We're committed to resolving matters as efficiently as possible.
Can I access my documents online?
Yes. All clients receive access to our secure client portal where you can view documents, track progress, and communicate with your lawyer 24/7.
Do you handle matters outside Melbourne?
We regularly act for clients across Victoria and can handle many matters Australia-wide. Interstate and international matters can often be managed remotely, and we have referral relationships with firms in every state.
Book Your Free Consultation
Tell us about your matter and one of our specialist lawyers will be in touch within one business day.