The Family Law Conference returns with a programme designed to equip family lawyers with practical insights, fresh perspectives, and the latest developments shaping the profession. Bringing together members of the judiciary, experienced practitioners, and leading experts, the conference will explore a range of contemporary issues affecting family law practice through engaging and practice-focused sessions.

Whether you are looking to deepen your expertise, stay abreast of emerging developments, or gain valuable perspectives from the Bench and colleagues across the profession, this conference offers an outstanding opportunity to enhance your knowledge and inform your practice. The conference will conclude with networking and refreshments, providing an opportunity to connect with colleagues and speakers.

Topics include:

• From the Bench: Judicial Perspective and Insights
• Evidence Integrity Challenges in the Digital Paradigm
• Psychology & High Conflict Cases: De-escalation in Practice
• Family Law and Cross-Jurisdictional Issues
• The Future of Family Law Billing - Fixed Fees
• No Good Deed Goes Unappointed: PPPR Update
• Managing a Legal Aid File
• Panel Discussion: PRA in Practice: Advanced Issues and Emerging Trends

Schedule

8:30am - 9:00am: Registration, Coffee & Pastries
9:00am – 4:30pm: Conference sessions
4:30pm – 5:30pm: Networking and Refreshments

Livestream

Able to join us livestream? Click here to book your ticket.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

• Apply judicial insights to strengthen advocacy and practice before the Family Court.
• Assess the evidential challenges presented by digital evidence and emerging technologies, including AI.
• Evaluate contemporary approaches to legal practice management, including billing models, pricing strategies, and effective client communication.
• Identify practical strategies for managing legally aided matters efficiently and sustainably.
• Incorporate current developments, practical guidance, and emerging best practice into their day-to-day family law practice.

Who Should Attend?

For family law practitioners at all levels seeking to deepen practical insight into the issues shaping contemporary family law practice.

Presenters

His Honour Judge Goodwin
Her Honour Judge Gray
Dr David Harvey | Barrister, Retired District Court Judge
Alex Ashmore | Barrister, Hepburn Chambers
Vanessa Curac | Barrister, Friendship Chambers
Theresa Donnelly | Head of Legal, Perpetual Guardian
Jennie Hawker | Director, Haigh Lyon Lawyers
Chris Holdaway | Barrister
Georgia Johnston | Senior Associate, Wynn Williams
Jeremy Johnson | Barrister, Bankside Chambers
Reagan McKenzie | Barrister, Auckland
Jeremy Sutton | Barrister, Bastion Chambers
Dr Bahrie Veliu | Clinical Psychologist

Chairs

Stuart Cummings | Senior Counsel, Surrey Chambers
Alissa Bell | Partner, McVeagh Flemming