Family law is becoming increasingly complex.  Since 1975, the Family Law Act has increased in size from 70 pages to 734 pages.  Judges are constantly making new decisions about what the law means.  To be a good family lawyer, your lawyer needs to know what the law is saying now but also, just as importantly, where the law is going.  With that aim in mind, I recently completed the Master of Applied Law (Family Law) degree offered by the New South Wales College of Law.  Last Wednesday, I graduated!

Sunset, from L’Aqua Darling Harbour

Graduation

My graduation ceremony was held at L’Aqua Darling Harbour.  One of the great things about law functions are the ridiculously expensive locations where they are held.  As you can see from the photo, this one was no different.  Great views, great weather.  The sunset was beautiful.  Canapes (code for ‘rich people food’) galore.  Thankfully they had spring rolls, because otherwise I was completely out of my depth!

With thanks to Silvercity Photos (www.silvercity.com.au)

Here I am accepting my award from Professor Gillian Triggs, the President of the Australian Human Rights Commission.  According to the graduation list, I was the only graduate from the Newcastle and Hunter Valley area for this graduation period.  There was a graduate from Tamworth, another from the Central Coast, and others from Sydney.

Darling Harbour at night – almost as nice as Newcastle foreshore!

The Master of Applied Law (Family Law) program – why is it important?

Family law is complex.  If you need a family lawyer, you should be comfortable knowing that your lawyer has knowledge which is up-to-date and which can stand up to challenge from other lawyers and judicial officers.

I completed the Family Law Masters over an intensive 18 month period.  My studies covered a broad spectrum of family law knowledge: from regular property settlements involving the family home as the major asset to matters involving complex family trusts and company structures.  From regular parenting disputes to complex matters involving family violence, child abuse and babies and infant children.  Hague Convention and relocation.  Spousal maintenance.  Child support.  And many other important areas in between.

When you have a family law problem, don’t just get a family lawyer.  Get a family law master.  Let our knowledge be your edge.  Contact us now.