Practice Areas
Practice Areas | Trusted Business, Franchise & Construction Law Firm
Strategic Lawyers for Businesses, Franchisors, Developers and Builders
Whelan Lawyers is a Melbourne-based commercial law firm providing practical legal advice to businesses across a range of industries. Our team advises business owners, directors, shareholders, franchisors, franchisees, developers, builders and investors on complex legal matters that impact growth, profitability and risk management.
We understand that legal issues rarely exist in isolation. A business acquisition may involve commercial contracts, employment obligations and shareholder considerations. A franchisor may require advice on franchise documentation, intellectual property protection and compliance. A construction project may involve contractual, regulatory and dispute resolution issues.
Our approach is focused on delivering commercially sound legal solutions that support business objectives while protecting long-term interests.
Commercial decisions require commercial advice. We help you negotiate, structure, and safeguard your deals without the jargon or delay.
We regularly advise on:
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Business sales and acquisitions
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Shareholder and partnership agreements
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Corporate Advisory
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Commercial contracts (supply, distribution, licensing, services)
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Privacy compliance and data security
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PPSR advice and registration
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Regulatory compliance
Commercial Law
Whether you’re franchising for the first time or managing a national network, we offer legal advice that’s grounded in operational reality.
We assist with:
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Franchise agreements & disclosure documents
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Franchising Code of Conduct compliance
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Franchise recruitment strategy & on-boarding
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Dispute prevention and resolution
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Terminations, renewals & transfers
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Multi-unit and master franchise structuring
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Reviewing franchise models
Franchising Law
Our experienced construction lawyers provide tailored legal advice for residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects across Australia.
We regularly advise:
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Residential and commercial builders
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Subcontractors and trades
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Developers and project managers
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Architects, engineers and consultants
Construction Law
We know how to read the fine print and anticipate the red flags especially when it comes to retail leases.
We handle:
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Retail and commercial lease review and negotiation
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Disclosure compliance under Victorian leasing law
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Exit strategies, make-good disputes and assignments
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Lease enforcement and litigation support
Leases & Property
Whether it’s your first hire or managing a team across locations, we’ll help you balance protection and practicality.
We advise on:
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Employment contracts and contractor agreements
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Performance management and termination
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Award interpretation and compliance
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Workplace policies and procedures
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Restraints, confidentiality and post-employment risk
Employment & Contractor Advice
Your IP is the foundation of your brand, your goodwill, and your commercial edge. We help you safeguard your intellectual property from the moment it’s created, so you can grow with confidence.
We advise on:
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Trade Mark Registration (Australia & International)
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Drafting and negotiating licensing agreements.
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Practical protection for ideas in early-stage conversations, joint ventures, or R&D environments.
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Early risk assessments, cease-and-desist letters, and litigation support when your IP is under threat.
Intellectual Property Law
Your corporate structure, governance, and compliance are critical to your business success. We help you establish, manage, and adapt your corporate framework so your business can operate efficiently and grow with confidence.
We advise on:
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Company incorporations and registrations
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Corporate governance and compliance
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Director and officer duties advice
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Shareholder agreements and disputes
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Corporate restructuring and reorganization
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Board advisory services
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Regulatory reporting and compliance
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Corporate transaction support
Corporate Law