Rated 4.6 Excellent on Google Reviews
Kelly & Chapman Lawyers + Notary Public
A Local Law Firm That Stands Beside You
Trusted Legal Help for Life’s Turning Points
At Kelly & Chapman Lawyers, we’ve been helping people across Melbourne’s southeast make sense of the legal system for more than 50 years.
Whether you’re navigating divorce, buying property, facing charges or planning your estate, we’re here to guide you with clarity, calm and experience that counts.
We believe good lawyers do more than solve legal problems. They listen. They explain. They help you feel in control, even when life isn’t.
Real Lawyers. Real Results.
We’re not a call centre. We’re not a franchise. We’re a small, deeply experienced law firm built on relationships, not transactions.
Clients choose us — and stay with us — because:
We speak your language
We explain things clearly
No jargon. Just solid advice.
We act fast.
Legal problems don’t wait — neither do we.
We’ve seen it all.
Since 1966, we’ve handled thousands of matters in and out of court.
We’re on your side
How We Can Help
Powers of Attorney
Powers of attorney are legal documents that let you choose someone who can make decisions for you. Powers of attorney give you choice and control.
Civil and Commercial Litigation
Very few people want to be involved in court proceedings. They can be protracted, stressful, costly and the outcome is not always predictable.
Criminal Law
It is an unfortunate fact of life that ordinary, decent and generally law-abiding people occasionally fall foul of the law.
VCAT
Many minor and specialised disputes are dealt with at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
Wills & Probate
Wills & Probate focuses on managing a person’s estate after death, including validating wills, distributing assets, settling debts, and handling inheritance matters to ensure the deceased’s wishes are carried out legally.
Property Law
Property Law deals with the ownership, use, transfer, and protection of real estate and property rights, including buying, selling, leasing, and resolving property disputes.
Notary Public
If you’re sending legal documents overseas, many foreign governments, courts, and institutions will only accept them if they’ve been notarised by an appointed Notary Public.
Built on Respect and Results
We don’t measure success in billable hours.
We measure it in:
Relieved Faces
Restored Confidence
Outcomes That Change Lives
If you want a lawyer who listens first and speaks with meaning, you’re in the right place.
Serving Bentleigh and Beyond
Our office is located in Bentleigh, but our clients come from all over Melbourne, including Clayton, Bentleigh, East Brighton, Brighton, Caulfield, Hampton, Cheltenham, Highett, Hughesdale, Chadstone, Carnegie, Malvern East, and beyond.
We’re locals. We know the courts. We know the community. And we’ll fight for the outcome that works best for you.
What Our Clients Say
-
The best professional lawyer in Melbourne who gives you heartfelt advice and guidance in all your business & property needs. Thank you Misko…
Anna
April 24, 2026We found Susan Gale-Phillips to be extremely professional, knowledgeable, efficient, thorough and meticulous. She alleviated any concerns and went above and beyond, always explaining everything to us at all times. There was peace of mind, knowing we didn't have to worry about a thing as we were in great hands. Susan made the whole process clear and easy. I would not hesitate to recommend Susan Gale-Phillips from Kelly Chapman Lawyers.
Nikki
August 28, 2023We have just finished using the incomparable Susan Gale-Phillips in a conveyancing matter and could not recommend her more highly. The matter was complicated, involving a buyer's advocate and a company/trust structure, issues with which we have no experience. Susan was across absolutely all of the legal and administrative matters. Moreover, her communication, both in writing and on the phone, was clear, detailed and very timely. The matter settled today without a hitch and we are so grateful that we decided to use Kelly & Chapman, and Susan in particular. Thank you so much!!
Ben Harris
April 28, 2025 -
The work completed on transferring an old title was first rate. Thank you Laiany Pinto.
John Trotter
October 7, 2025The service was quick, professional and the reception experience was excellent. Strongly endorse.
NIru Gosavi (Urban Monk)
February 3, 2026Always prompt and helpful. Great service.
Jude Perumal
July 2, 2023 -
Outstanding experience dealing with professionals such as Misko and Susan. As a local real estate agent I am careful who I recommend to my clients but each time the team at Kelly & Chapman deliver excellent service. Keep up the great work!
Anthony Fordham
June 7, 2024Susan Gale-Phillips has provided me and my family with conveyance services twice in the past one year and reviewed numerous contracts for us. She is very responsive, professional and easy to communicate with. Susan always bring up key issues for our attention and provides very helpful advices. We are very lucky to have Susan and our property purchase has been very smooth because of her.
Ellen Tao
July 3, 2024Please don't use their service.
Jess Hartanu
January 8, 2024
Ready to Talk?
It starts with a conversation. No pressure. Just a chance to meet, listen and plan the next step together.