Michelle Gillard

Michelle Gillard is a distinguished Accredited Specialist in Family Law and a dedicated Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP). Her expertise in this field has been consistently recognised, as she has been recommended in the esteemed Doyles Guide for Leading Family & Divorce Lawyers in Newcastle, the Hunter Valley, and the Central Coast for the years 2023, 2024, and 2025. Since her admission as a solicitor in 2010, Michelle has concentrated almost exclusively on Family Law. She solidified her knowledge and skills by completing a Master of Applied Law (Family Law) in 2013. Michelle is renowned for her tenacity and strong advocacy on behalf of her clients. She frequently secures outstanding outcomes in complex parenting cases and substantial property settlements, particularly those involving intricate corporate structures and trusts. With a pronounced focus on early resolution, Michelle aims to minimise both the financial and emotional burdens faced by her clients. Her approach is grounded in providing comprehensive legal advice, enabling clients to make informed decisions and facilitating effective settlements. Understanding that clients seek clarity on the family law process, Michelle ensures they are fully informed about potential outcomes at various court stages, such as directions hearings, interim hearings, and final hearings. While acknowledging the discretion exercised by Judges and Registrars in court events, she believes a proficient lawyer should accurately forecast the scope of potential outcomes or orders. This approach assists clients in managing their expectations and emotions during court proceedings. Michelle also serves as an Independent Children’s Lawyer, appointed to represent children in complex parenting disputes. Her role underscores her commitment to advocating for the best interests of the children involved in these sensitive matters.