Grant Hutchinson, the Victorian Liberal candidate for the tight Croydon seat, is in a legal battle with his law firm. His partners accuse him of bullying staff and using firm resources to back his political goals. Hutchinson denies the charges. Hutchinson, picked last month for the Melbourne east seat, faces claims from current and former firm partners. They say Hutchinson's actions broke partnership rules, including working another profession. Documents reveal incidents of bullying, such as allegedly detaining a lawyer and using rude language. Court papers say six employees quit due to Hutchinson's behavior. One female lawyer, who complained against him, has been off work for months with a workplace injury. Hutchinson acknowledges a meeting with her but denies wrongdoing. The partners also claim Hutchinson used the law firm’s staff, email, and personal assistant for political work. They describe this as "engaging in another profession." Hutchinson rejects these accusations. A court order sets mediation by March 20, 2026, with further hearings after. The Liberal party knew of the lawsuit before Hutchinson's preselection but did not comment. The Croydon seat is crucial for the Liberals in the 2026 election. Current MP David Hodgett is retiring, and Hutchinson was chosen to replace him amid strong Labor competition.