Practice Specialisations
We’re behind you. Every step of the way.
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Alex Nicol
Managing Principal
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Mike Chenoweth
Principal
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Nicole Jee
Principal Lawyer
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Caroline Skeoch
Principal Lawyer
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Andrew Blogg
Principal Lawyer
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Bao Ngo
Principal Lawyer
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Erin Prout
Principal Lawyer
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Tim Graham
Principal Lawyer
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Philip Fox
Consultant
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Rod Lindquist
Consultant
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Oren Polichtuk
Senior Associate
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Sam Merrylees
Senior Associate
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Zoe Zhou
Senior Associate
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Isaac Choi
Associate
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Matthew Emmerton
Associate
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Kate Doherty
Lawyer
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Priscilla Chengabraydoo
Lawyer
Clear Strategy From the Start
We help you understand your options early, so you can make informed decisions before a dispute becomes more costly or disruptive.
We focus on practical outcomes, not unnecessary conflict. Where a negotiated result is possible, we work to resolve matters efficiently and commercially.
Ready to Litigate When Needed
While we often explore alternatives to court proceedings, we are experienced in contested matters and can act decisively when litigation is required.
Our team brings strong advocacy, careful preparation and sound judgment to protect your interests in formal proceedings.
Protecting Your Position
We understand that disputes are not just legal matters; they are commercial and personal challenges which can be highly disruptive to go through for the first time.
Our role is to guide you through the process with clear advice, measured strategy, and a focus on outcomes that make sense for you personally, and for your business.
How We Work With You
Frequently Asked Questions
A settlement is an agreement between parties to resolve a dispute without proceeding to a final court judgment. Settlements often involve negotiated terms such as payment, performance of obligations or confidentiality agreement and are commonly formalised in a legally binding document.
Commercial litigation involves disputes arising in a business or commercial context, including contract disputes, shareholder conflicts, partnership disagreements and debt recovery matters. These disputes may be resolved through negotiation, mediation or court proceedings.
A litigation lawyer advises and represents clients in disputes from early stages through to court proceedings if required. This includes assessing claims, managing legal risk, negotiating settlements, preparing evidence and advocating in court.
You should seek legal advice as soon as a dispute arises or is anticipated. Early advice can help protect your position, preserve evidence and may prevent the matter from escalating into costly litigation. For tailored advice, contact the team at Aitken Partners on (03) 9600 6000.
Yes. Many commercial disputes are resolved without going to court through negotiation, mediation or alternative dispute resolution (ADR). These methods are often faster, more cost effective and less disruptive than formal litigation.
The cost of litigation in Victoria varies depending on factors such as the complexity of the dispute, the amount involved and how far the matter progresses. Costs can include legal fees, court filing fees, expert reports and barrister fees. Resolving a dispute early can significantly reduce overall costs.
The timeframe for resolving a commercial dispute depends on the nature of the matter. Some disputes may resolve within weeks through negotiation, while more complex cases may take months or longer if they proceed through the court system.
If a contract has been breached, you should seek legal advice promptly. Aitken Partners can assess the breach, advise on your legal rights and assist with pursuing remedies such as damages, termination or enforcement of the contract.
Recovering an unpaid debt typically begins with a formal demand for payment. If the debt remains unpaid, legal action may be necessary, including court proceedings or enforcement measures. Aitken Partners assists businesses at each stage of the debt recovery process to maximise the likelihood of recovery.
Director disputes can have serious legal and commercial implications. It is important to seek legal advice early to understand your rights and obligations under the Corporations Act and any relevant agreements. Aitken Partners can assist with negotiation, mediation or litigation to resolve these disputes effectively.
Located in Melbourne CBD at Level 28, 140 William Street, Melbourne. Servicing all Melbourne suburbs online and within a 15-minute drive for: Melbourne CBD, Carlton, Fitzroy, Richmond, South Yarra, St Kilda, Brunswick, Collingwood, Prahran, South Melbourne, North Melbourne.
Please note: The information in this article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to be comprehensive or to apply to any specific circumstances. You should seek independent legal advice before acting on any information contained in this article.