Emmalaura Messer is the Director and Principal Lawyer at Starling Family Law in Melbourne, known for her personalised and empathetic approach to family law. Her practice spans both collaborative law and high-conflict litigation, demonstrating her versatility and ability to handle diverse family law matters effectively. Emmalaura's commitment to client-centred service is evident in her ability to demystify the legal process and empower clients to make informed decisions. Emmalaura's extensive experience covers a wide range of family law issues, including high-net-worth cases, same-sex relationships, and family violence. She leverages her training in psychology to navigate cases involving psychological disorders and neurodiversity with a deep understanding of human behaviour, enhancing her ability to achieve favourable outcomes for her clients. Her legal journey began with roles at the County Court and Supreme Court of Victoria, moving through Victoria Legal Aid before entering private practice. With significant advocacy experience, she has appeared in various courts across Australia. Emmalaura's professional qualifications include a Bachelor of Behavioural Science and a Master of Laws in Dispute Resolution. Accredited as a mediator and trained in collaborative law, she continually enhances her skills for the benefit of her practice. Beyond her professional life, Emmalaura contributes to her community through volunteer work, including a decade of service with the Women's Legal Service. Her passion for travel, theatre, and live music adds balance to her life, enriching her interactions with clients and colleagues alike. Emmalaura is admitted to the Supreme Court of Victoria and the High Court of Australia and is an active member of several legal associations, reinforcing her commitment to professional excellence and client advocacy.
Director and Principal Lawyer
Starling Family Law
Feb 2025 - Present • 1 year 9 months
Principal Lawyer / Head of Family Law
Hicks Oakley Chessell Williams Lawyers & Notary
Jun 2022 - Jan 2025 • 2 years 7 months
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Special Counsel
KCL Law
Jul 2021 - Jun 2022 • 11 months
Senior Associate
KCL Law
Nov 2019 - Jul 2021 • 1 year 8 months
Senior Lawyer (Family Law)
Moores
Nov 2014 - Nov 2019 • 5 years
Senior Associate
Pearsons Lawyers Pty Ltd
Sep 2013 - Nov 2014 • 1 year 2 months
Solicitor Advocate
Hartleys Lawyers
Jan 2011 - Sep 2013 • 2 years 8 months
Lawyer
Victoria Legal Aid - Melbourne
Jul 2010 - Jan 2011 • 6 months
Volunteer Solicitor
Women's Legal Service Victoria
Dec 2009 - Jan 2021 • 11 years 1 month
Judge's Associate
Supreme Court of Victoria
Oct 2009 - Jul 2010 • 9 months
Directions Group Administrator
County Court of Victoria
Apr 2008 - Oct 2009 • 1 year 6 months
Master of Laws (LLM)
Monash University
2013 - 2015
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice
College of Law
2009
Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Behavioural Science
La Trobe University
2002 - 2008
Last checked: 12 Mar 2026 • Checked with Victorian Legal Services Board
