GEORGIA EDWARDS

Family Lawyer

After completing high school in Perth, Western Australia, I received a scholarship to study law and commerce at Bond University on the Gold Coast. I first enrolled in my law degree because, well, my cousin was a lawyer, and I really looked/look up to her (which is as good a reason as any for a 17 year old). As I was progressing through my law degree, I felt disheartened that none of the legal subjects I had completed were exciting to me. During my last semester, I enrolled in a Family Law intensive, and I soon found that this was the area of law that I was meant to practice. My Family Law lecturer, who is still a colleague and friend, invited me to train under the guidance of BGM Director, Dan Bottrell. I found Dan’s ability to generate creative solutions to complex and unique Family Law problems infectious, ultimately leading me to pursue this career path.

I have worked exclusively in Family Law since graduating from university in 2015, and I have been fortunate enough to train under and work with some of the most recognised family lawyers in Queensland.

I have grown to love the challenge of understanding the nuisances of each individual case and what is important to each individual client, to ultimately assist my clients through (arguably) the most difficult time in their lives. I am a hard worker, and I enjoy putting my all in to each task I undertake, and this is reflected in the high quality of work that I deliver for my clients.

My major in accounting has been invaluable in assisting me to digest financial information and navigate complex property matters. I have also gained experience in a variety of other Family Law matters, including matters involving domestic violence, parenting disputes, Hague convention applications, relocation and child support.

Throughout my practice, while assisting countless families to navigate the complex and uncertain Australian court system, I have become passionate about early, fast and cost effective dispute resolution (in particular effective negotiation and mediation). I consider it imperative, where possible, to utilise dispute resolution to allow families to ‘move on’ with their lives and rebuild. In furthering this passion, I commenced a Certificate in Family Dispute Resolution in January 2021 (which I expect to complete in December 2021, together with my accreditation as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner). I consider this training important, as it will continue to give me a unique insight into generating and navigating cost effective and amicable resolutions for my clients.

Outside of the office, I enjoy travelling, eating and cooking delicious food, and spending quality time with family and friends. I am passionate about young lawyers (myself included) maintaining a great work-life balance, because I understand and advocate for the importance of lawyers’ wellness and mental health. This ensures that, as lawyers, we have the capacity to be a pillar of strength and rationality for our clients when they need it.