ABOUT BARRISTER

70 years of fearless advocacy across Victoria.

Since 1952, Barrister has been a cornerstone of Victoria's legal community — built on integrity, driven by excellence.

The law can be complex, intimidating, and overwhelming. We built Barrister to change that. Our firm exists to give every client — regardless of their background or circumstances — access to fearless, expert legal representation. We would love to stand beside you and fight for the outcome you deserve. Find the right lawyer for your matter and take the first step today.

OUR HISTORY

Our history is full of interesting stages and events.

1952

Barrister is founded by Thomas Hartwell at 259 William Street, Melbourne — a sole practice built on criminal defence and a belief that justice is a right, not a privilege.

1971

Patricia O'Brien joins as the firm's first partner, bringing expertise in family law and expanding Barrister's reach into suburban Melbourne communities.

1988

Richard Hartwell is admitted to the bar and joins the firm, beginning a new era of leadership, growth, and specialist legal services across Victoria.

1997

Barrister opens its second office in Dandenong, bringing accessible legal services to Melbourne's rapidly growing southeast corridor.

2008

Richard Hartwell assumes the role of Senior Partner, guiding the firm through significant expansion into commercial and corporate law.

2022

Barrister celebrates 70 years of practice — and reaffirms its founding mission. Justice, access, and excellence for every client, every time.

1952

Barrister is founded by Thomas Hartwell at 259 William Street, Melbourne — a sole practice built on criminal defence and a belief that justice is a right, not a privilege.

1971

Patricia O'Brien joins as the firm's first partner, bringing expertise in family law and expanding Barrister's reach into suburban Melbourne communities.

1988

Richard Hartwell is admitted to the bar and joins the firm, beginning a new era of leadership, growth, and specialist legal services across Victoria.

1997

Barrister opens its second office in Dandenong, bringing accessible legal services to Melbourne's rapidly growing southeast corridor.

2008

Richard Hartwell assumes the role of Senior Partner, guiding the firm through significant expansion into commercial and corporate law.

2022

Barrister celebrates 70 years of practice — and reaffirms its founding mission. Justice, access, and excellence for every client, every time.

1952

Barrister is founded by Thomas Hartwell at 259 William Street, Melbourne — a sole practice built on criminal defence and a belief that justice is a right, not a privilege.

1971

Patricia O'Brien joins as the firm's first partner, bringing expertise in family law and expanding Barrister's reach into suburban Melbourne communities.

1988

Richard Hartwell is admitted to the bar and joins the firm, beginning a new era of leadership, growth, and specialist legal services across Victoria.

1997

Barrister opens its second office in Dandenong, bringing accessible legal services to Melbourne's rapidly growing southeast corridor.

2008

Richard Hartwell assumes the role of Senior Partner, guiding the firm through significant expansion into commercial and corporate law.

2022

Barrister celebrates 70 years of practice — and reaffirms its founding mission. Justice, access, and excellence for every client, every time.

OUR VALUES

What we stand for.

Justice

Every person deserves fearless legal representation — regardless of background or circumstance.

Integrity

Honest advice, ethical practice, and complete transparency — in everything we do.

Excellence

The highest standard of legal work, applied to every matter, every client, every time.

Access

Free consultations, No Win No Fee, and three offices across Victoria — because justice should be within reach.

Discretion

Every matter is handled with complete confidentiality. What you share with us stays with us.

Commitment

From first consultation to final outcome — your matter is always our priority.

OUR PEOPLE

Meet Our Team

Eleanor Chen Partner

Family Law & Wills

Layla Anderson Associate

Family Law

Richard Hartwell Senior Partner

Criminal Law

Priya Sharma Associate

Property & Business Law

Sarah Mitchell Associate

Injury Compensation

Tom Nguyen Associate

Criminal Law