Lachlan Vallance

Lachlan Vallance is a distinguished Director and Principal Lawyer at Hicks Oakley Chessell Williams, leading the firm's Wills and Estates practice from both Melbourne CBD and Mount Waverley offices. With a keen focus on sensitivity and discretion, Lachlan offers comprehensive guidance on a wide spectrum of estate planning issues. His expertise encompasses drafting wills, managing testamentary trusts, and advising on powers of attorney and advance care directives. Clients benefit from his proficiency in handling inheritances and navigating the complexities of superannuation matters. Lachlan's role in administering deceased estates and his ability to secure grants of representation showcase his adeptness in probate and estate administration. He is also skilled in addressing will challenges and estate claims, combining legal acumen with an intricate understanding of taxation matters. His background in farming provides unique insights, enabling him to advise on farm succession planning effectively. Recognised as an authority in his field, Lachlan is an Accredited Specialist in Wills and Estates by the Law Institute of Victoria and a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners. His accolades include recognition by Doyle’s Guide as one of Australia’s Leading Wills and Estates Litigation Lawyers and consistently being ranked as a Preeminent Lawyer in Victoria. Entrusted by clients as an executor and attorney, he is also appointed by the Supreme Court of Victoria for complex estates and trusts. Lachlan's career at Hicks Oakley Chessell Williams spans over 18 years, progressing from a Senior Associate to his current leadership role. He holds degrees in Commerce and Law from the University of Melbourne, underpinned by a strong academic foundation from Ballarat Grammar. His contributions to the field are also reflected in his published insights on recent estate litigation cases, highlighting his engagement with evolving legal precedents.