Richard Bannerman

Richard Bannerman is the Principal of Bannerman Solicitors, a firm he established in April 2005 after relocating from Scotland to Western Australia in 1998. With a law degree from Edinburgh University, Richard rapidly advanced his career early on by managing branch offices and joining the Court Department of a Scottish practice before moving to Australia. Since his arrival, he has focused his practice on family law, representing both private clients and those receiving Legal Aid. Richard is committed to providing accessible legal services and has maintained a strong involvement with Legal Aid work throughout his career. Bannerman Solicitors has consistently ranked among the top five firms in Western Australia for family law Legal Aid services, and for several years has been the leading provider in this area. His practice encompasses all facets of family law, including negotiation, mediation, and representation throughout court proceedings up to trial. Richard has extensive courtroom experience, conducting approximately 20 Family Court trials annually, alongside trials in restraining orders, inquests, and the Children’s Court. He has also represented clients in criminal matters and often acts on instructions from the Department of Communities, Child Protection and Family Support. Richard has been appointed as an Independent Children’s Lawyer over 200 times, highlighting his significant experience and trusted position in advocating for the interests of children in legal proceedings in Perth. Beyond his professional practice, Richard has a longstanding commitment to volunteer work, both legal and non-legal. He served as a board member of the Citizens Advice Bureau in Scotland and provided pro bono legal advice there and later at the Community Legal Advice Centre in Fremantle. He continues to offer pro bono and reduced-fee services for certain cases, including work for the WA Cancer Council and support referrals from women’s shelters and domestic violence victim services. Richard’s career reflects a dedication to both legal excellence and community service, underscoring his role as a respected figure in the Western Australian legal community.