HOLLY BROWN

Family Lawyer

Throughout high school I was convinced I would become an actor, I was drawn in by the experience of empathising so deeply with a character that I would be able to present their voice to those who were there to listen. I was also, as my parents would attest, passionate about never losing an argument (or control of the TV remote). When approaching the decision of what to study at university, I took a punt that my nature as an ‘empathetic advocate’ would lend itself to a career in the Law, and I set my sights specifically on Family Law very early on.

I graduated from the University of Queensland in 2019 with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Arts (Extended Major in Psychology), and was admitted into the profession as a solicitor in November 2022.

Prior to commencing at BGM, I worked as a paralegal at a reputable Brisbane-based Family Law firm and later as a Deputy Associate in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia for almost two years. In my stint with the Court, I spent the vast majority of my time in the Courtroom assisting with the operation of the justice system as it related to individual families, each with their own very unique set of circumstances and legal complexities. Certainly, no day in Court was ever the same! I received a ‘behind-the-scenes’ look at how the Court system operates, how Judges engage in the decision-making process and form their personal view, what each step in the litigation pathway looks like, and how matters move forward on the ‘conveyor belt’ of Court proceedings.

My time with the Court fanned my already-ignited passion for Family Law. It also awakened me to the very real benefit of pursuing non-litigious pathways and using the Court system really as the ‘last resort’. I have seen the emotional, financial and psychological toll taken on individuals who allow the invasion of the Court system into one of the most deeply personal and difficult times of their life. Of course, in some situations going to Court is unfortunately an unavoidable necessity to determining the dispute, however, I am a strong advocate for resolving matters via dispute resolution (such as through negotiation or mediation) where this is possible and appropriate.

I genuinely enjoy the challenge of formulating creative solutions to problems by taking a holistic view of all the circumstances and the ‘sticking points’ of each individual matter. I was drawn to the law by my desire to help people, and I endeavour to be a touchpoint of calmness and understanding for clients and to provide them with a practical understanding of the way through the oftentimes incredibly complex and daunting Family Law system.

Outside of work, I really enjoy travelling (especially backpacking) and exploring new cultures and ways of life. I’m also an avid baker and take any opportunity to whip up some cookies or a slice! I am passionate about giving back and helping people who have difficulty navigating the legal system or accessing legal help, and I volunteer with Women’s Legal Service on a regular basis.