SUSAN DOWNES

Susan is admitted as a Barrister of the Supreme Court of Queensland and the High Court of Australia.

Susan’s early career was in Accounting following her completion of a Bachelor of Commerce with majors in Accounting, Finance and Economics.  She later attained her Bachelor of Laws, achieving First Class Honours and was awarded the University Medal.

Before being called to the private Bar in 2007, Susan worked with Dibbs Barker Gosling in their Corporate Advisory and Succession Law divisions.

She was later appointed a Judge’s Associate for His Honour Judge Neil McLauchlan QC, a role she held for two and a half years.

Her post graduate studies have included a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice and a Master of Laws.

Since commencing practice as a Barrister, Susan has focused almost exclusively on Family Law.  She represents clients across all stages of proceedings – from initial advice on prospects and evidence, through to interim hearings, reviews, trials, and appeals.  Her experience includes appearances in complex parenting matters, such as international relocation and Magellan cases, as well as property disputes.  She has acted as Counsel for parties, Independent Children’s Lawyers, and third parties in all divisions of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia and in the High Court of Australia.

Susan is also a Mediator and an accredited Family Law Arbitrator.