Experience
I am a family law trial barrister and mediator with the following particular interests and experience:
- Relocation matters – advising clients and assisting instructing solicitors with strategy, case planning and preparation for relocation trials, both domestic and international;
- Property matters involving third party claims; the intersection between family law and equity, and wills and estates;
- Matters with conflicting expert evidence;
- Matters where there are allegations of unacceptable risk and/or family violence where careful attention needs to be paid to case preparation, pleadings and the treatment of collateral evidence.
In 2016, I became a nationally accredited mediator and also obtained a Master of Laws from Monash University, in which I undertook course work in the areas of family law, negotiation, mediation and dealing with high conflict people.
As a mediator I work hard to provide the parties with a supportive and efficient process focussed on outcomes which are just and equitable and enable them and their families to get out of the court system with dignity.
I enjoy being involved in matters from start to finish, working with my instructor and client towards a common goal, and advising on strategic decisions from an early stage to set the matter up for the best possible result for my client in the circumstances.
Background
I signed the bar roll in May 2011 and read with Dan Sweeney.
After my admission to practice in 2004, I was a solicitor in private practice. I was initially employed by Dwyer Robinson Lawyers in Warrnambool, where I gained experience across a broad range of areas, including family law. For the three years immediately prior to coming to the Bar, I was a solicitor with CE Family Lawyers.
I accept briefs to appear in interstate and circuit registries of the FCFCOA.
Positions held:
I am actively involved in the life of the Victorian Bar outside of my own practice, including Committee and voluntary Board work:
- Deputy Chair, Family Law Bar Association, Victorian Bar.
- Past President, Victorian Golfing Lawyers Society (2017-2024)
- Director, Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club.