Cathie Blanchfield

Cathie Blanchfield has practised exclusively in family law and disputes for over 30 years, dedicating her career to assisting clients with complex financial and property matters involving married, de-facto, and same-sex couples. Her expertise encompasses a broad range of family financial arrangements, and she has extensive experience in addressing parenting issues. While much of Cathie’s work involves resolving matters at the conclusion of a relationship, she also provides valuable advice to clients preparing for cohabitation. She regularly drafts financial agreements and pre-nuptial agreements under both the Family Law Act and the Property (Relationships) Act. Known for her sensible and pragmatic approach, Cathie is highly regarded for facilitating efficient settlement negotiations and promoting alternatives to traditional court proceedings. She has contributed significantly to the profession by writing and presenting on various family law topics for continuing professional legal education, including the intersection of bankruptcy and family law as well as binding financial agreements. Cathie is an active member of the Family Law Section of the Law Council of Australia and Law Asia. She has also held leadership roles within the City of Sydney Law Society’s Family Law Section, including serving as Convenor. Admitted as a solicitor in New South Wales in July 1988, Cathie began her career in a busy suburban family law practice, handling a diverse range of family law matters. She joined Stuart Fowler & Associates as a Senior Associate in 1996 and became a Partner in 2000. Cathie has been recognised consistently as a Leading Sydney Family & Divorce Lawyer from 2016 to 2025. Additionally, Doyles Guide has acknowledged her as a Leading Family Lawyer in High-Value and Complex Property Matters as well as Parenting and Children’s Matters in New South Wales. In 2007, she co-founded Blanchfield Nicholls alongside Nigel Nicholls, continuing her commitment to providing comprehensive family law services.