The journey into law…

Bronwen’s early experiences in student politics and activism, coupled with her studies in law and justice, ignited her passion for social justice and family law. She was inspired to work as a family lawyer after reading the groundbreaking book ‘Rougher than usual handling’ by Zoe Rathus, who was a co-founder of Women’s Legal Service.

Since graduating from QUT in 2004, Bronwen has worked exclusively in domestic violence and family law. She started her legal career in a boutique practice in Brisbane, where she completed her articles of clerkship and subsequently practiced as a family lawyer upon admission in 2006.

Bronwen then enjoyed a regional stint in Rockhampton working at Legal Aid Queensland for a number of years where she completed her Masters in Law. She also trained and practiced as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, further developing her skills in mediation and conflict resolution. At Legal Aid she gained valuable experience in many areas of State law (such as crime, DV law and child protection law) and their intersections with family law.

Bronwen then spent over a decade working as a case work lawyer in the Community Legal Sector, building on her specialist experience in domestic violence and family law in difficult complex matters. She developed expertise in matters involving child abuse, coercive control, substance abuse and mental health issues. She assisted clients to pursue their financial entitlements often where there was a huge imbalance of power. She obtained her domestic violence duty lawyer accreditation and appeared regularly in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

The passion for family law

Bronwen despises bullying and disrespectful intimidation tactics. She finds great fulfillment in assisting individuals to manage overwhelming situations.

Bronwen is also passionate about supporting vulnerable women through her volunteer work with Women’s Legal Service Queensland.

Experience in family law 

Throughout her 18+ year career, Bronwen has developed expertise in many areas of family law including:

• Safety planning, separation and divorce.
• Negotiation and mediation – wherever possible matters are best resolved by working collaboratively and reaching agreement.
• Litigation – where court is unavoidable Bronwen prepares thoroughly. One of her mottos is “evidence is the currency of the court” and she is a tenacious advocate.
• Parenting Arrangements – particularly high-risk matters involving recovering young children who have been abducted, and assisting clients to relocate after separation.
• Property Settlements – specialising in matters where there is family violence, financial abuse, non-disclosure, and wastage of assets.
• Contravention and enforcement issues.
• Child Support.
• Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVO) – assisting clients to escape abusive relationships, and also advocating for those misidentified as respondents.

Other areas of expertise

Bronwen has a special interest in trauma-informed lawyering and routinely applies trauma-informed strategies in her work. Her journey alongside social workers, with vulnerable clients has given her a deep understanding of the wider issues affecting separating families. Bronwen recognises the importance of self-care for both clients and legal professionals working in this demanding field.

Bronwen is also passionate about legal education. For 8 years, she shared her expertise, mentoring aspiring family lawyers through her teaching at Griffith University, and has contributed her client’s lived experience to various commissions of inquiries and law reform submissions on family violence and family law.

Bronwen has dedicated her career to providing holistic support to her clients, students and colleagues and for advocating for law reform.

Our care for clients 

Engaging the right family lawyer can be a game-changer. Bronwen stands out due to her kind and down-to-earth approach. She combines legal expertise with compassion providing clear guidance and support throughout the process ‘one step at a time’.

Bronwen loves working in an environment where she can get the job done, celebrate the wins and the lessons learned, whilst at the same time, having a laugh!

Why Unified 

Bronwen was drawn to Unified Lawyers for so many reasons! She was impressed by our commitment to using modern technology to streamline processes and improve efficiency. She also valued the wisdom, knowledge, and excellent reputation of our Partners, Special Counsel, and Accredited Family Law Specialists who provide mentorship and support to the team. Ultimately, it was Unified Lawyers’ welcoming atmosphere and dedication to exceptional client care and satisfaction that motivated Bronwen to join our team.

Passion outside of the law 

In a previous life Bronwen was a seasoned traveller, exploring various countries. These days she finds joy in bike riding and beach going with her family, rocking out to 80’s and 90’s music and feasting on her husband’s delicious cooking.

Other languages

No, however Bronwen has vast experience working with culturally and linguistically diverse clients using translators and interpreters which requires it’s own unique skillset.