Vanessa Balnaves

Vanessa Balnaves is a Partner and leads the firm’s Private Client Services team. She applies her extensive experience in Family Law and Wills and Estates to support clients through a range of legal matters. Vanessa provides practical and clear advice on Wills, Powers of Attorney, Advance Care Directives, and comprehensive estate planning and administration. She also assists with contested estates and claims under the Inheritance (Family Provision) Act. In Family Law, Vanessa advises married, de facto, and same-sex couples, as well as parents, on matters including property settlements, financial agreements, Divorce, separation, and arrangements concerning children. She handles family law property matters ranging from straightforward agreements to complex settlements involving multiple assets and structures such as businesses, Trusts, and Self-Managed Superannuation Funds, both within Australia and internationally. Vanessa’s background extends beyond the legal profession, drawing on experience and insights from various fields that enable her to connect effectively with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. She prioritises resolving disputes collaboratively and out of Court whenever possible. However, when litigation is necessary, Vanessa is a dedicated advocate for her clients in Court.