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- Meet the Team
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Property and asset distribution

Claiming Bankruptcy to Stop a Property Settlement – What You Need to Know

If a de facto spouse tried to frustrate, or prevent, a property settlement by claiming bankruptcy, it would likely leave you feeling disappointed and annoyed. For many families in Swan Hill and across Victoria, the idea of claiming bankruptcy during a separation raises serious concerns about fairness and financial security. Witnessing someone deliberately using bankruptcy…

So, you’ve separated from your spouse, and you have a Family Trust. It’s no secret that having a Family Trust can complicate property settlement negotiations, and you might find yourself wondering how it all works. Is it part of a property settlement agreement and can you withdraw a Family Trust distribution before an agreement is…

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Swan Hill Office

42 McCallum Street
Swan Hill VIC 3585

PO Box 503
Swan Hill VIC 3585

Also visiting by appointment - Boort

Echuca Office

195 Hare Street
Echuca VIC 3564

PO Box 503
Swan Hill VIC 3585

Open every Tuesday and Wednesday and by appointment for other times

Cohuna Office

1A Cullen St
Cohuna VIC 3568

PO Box 503
Swan Hill VIC 3585

Kerang Office

67A Victoria Street,
Kerang VIC 3579

Opening hours:
9 AM - 1 PM and
2 - 5 PM
Monday - Friday

Jess Harington

Paralegal

Expertise

I work mainly in Family Law and Wills & Estates, supporting clients with care and understanding. I’m particularly interested in guardianship, estate planning and family law matters. For me, it’s really important to approach each client as a person, not just a case.

Background

I have been working in the legal industry for several years in both wills and estates and family law, which led me to complete my Juris Doctor in 2025. I completed my PLT through ACAP and will be admitted to practice in October 2025. I’m now excited to be starting my career as a lawyer with Joliman Lawyers, working closely with Justine and Louise.

Interesting fact

I was born in the UK but moved to Australia when I was little, and I’ve lived all over Melbourne and its suburbs before moving out here with my partner to start our life outside the city. I’ve always been a bookworm and love diving into anything and everything I can get my hands on. I also enjoy picking up new crafts (though I don’t always finish what I start!). Outside of work I love spending time with my family, especially my nieces and nephews, who are a huge part of my life. At home, I’m usually kept busy with my two very loved but very cheeky dogs.

Lauren Cherry

Paralegal

Expertise

As Justine’s Personal Assistant, I look after her calendar, book in clients, manage any court appearances, and keep track of all the correspondence that comes through her inbox. I have a good overall understanding of what’s happening in the matters Justine is working on, which helps me stay one step ahead and keep things running smoothly.

Background

I started in March 2025, and this role is something I’ve wanted to do for a very long time. Being able to step into it has been such a rewarding experience, and I feel incredibly lucky to be part of the team.

Interesting fact

When I was younger I was 1 step about from being a junior golf professional?

Glenys Randall

Client Services

Expertise

I’m part of the admin team in our Cohuna office and also assist Stuart McRae with his matters in Conveyancing and Wills & Estates. I joined Joliman Lawyers in August 2024 but have been working in the legal industry for over 21 years. I started out on reception and over time have taken on broader roles within the firm. I’m passionate about helping people and always bring empathy and care to my work.

Background

I’m a born and bred local to Cohuna and have loved raising my family in this wonderful community. Over the years, I’ve built strong relationships with both clients and colleagues, and I truly enjoy being part of a team that supports people through important life events.

Interesting fact

Outside of work, I have a bit of a green thumb and love spending time in my garden. I also enjoy making homemade jams and condiments from what I grow — it’s my favourite way to share a little joy with family and friends!

Lara Noble

Client Services

Expertise

I started at Joliman Lawyers around 8 months ago on reception, where I’m the first point of contact for our clients - whether that’s answering phones or welcoming people as they walk through the doors of our Swan Hill office. I really enjoy helping clients feel comfortable, reassured, and supported from the moment they arrive.

Background

I’m a born and raised local in Swan Hill and have lived here my whole life. While I love getting away on weekends to explore new places, there’s nothing like coming home. I enjoy the variety that each day brings at work, and I take pride in being part of a team that helps people through all kinds of matters.

Interesting fact

Outside of work, I love spending time with my friends, family, and especially my dog - we go for lots of walks around Lake Boga. I also play netball for Lake Boga, enjoy going out for brunch, and you’ll definitely find me out on the ski boat in summer!

Stuart McRae

Solicitor, Family, Criminal, Wills & Estates

Expertise

Based in our Kerang office - My focus in law are commercial matters, including leases, business & land sales/purchases, wills & estates, etc. farms, subdivisions, water issues. I've worked in small firms firstly in Gympie, then Cobram and lastly Kearney.

Background

Admitted in Queensland & Victoria & registered as a solicitor at the High Court of Australia.

I hold a B.A., LL.B & Grad Dip of Legal Practice.

I grew up on a dairy farm at Leitchville where I milked cows, carted hay & swam in the irrigation channel in summer. Since then I’ve moved around, living in the ACT, NSW & Queensland.

Interesting fact

My interests include cycling, modern history (including the French Revolution, the Spanish civil war and Irish history including "The Troubles").

Olivia Spark

Paralegal

Expertise

I work alongside Stuart assisting with our Conveyancing, Wills and Estates. I am the front of house in our Kerang office so when you pop in make sure you say Hi or you may catch me answering our reception calls.

Background

I joined the Joliman Team in March 2025 prior to being head reception for 13 years at our local hospital, meaning I bring a strong sense of community and empathy to our clients.

Interesting fact

I am known as the cake lady, In my spare time I am baking delicious treats, camping and spending time with my family.

Lachlan Burns

PA to Justine Bowman

Expertise

I am currently a part of our Family Law team and work on all matters in this field, particularly in the Independent Children’s Lawyer area.

Background

I have lived in Swan Hill since 2008. I completed my schooling at Mackillop College in 2021 and have since began studying my Bachelor of Law with Deakin University online, allowing me to remain close to family and enjoy life in the country. I was lucky to be offered a position at Joliman’s allowing me to gain valuable experience while I continue my studies.

Interesting fact

I am the middle child of three and we are all born in consecutive years (2002,2003,2004)

Missy Moo or as I am affectionately called… Moo Moo

Top Dog and Chief of Staff

Expertise

I am an expert in human body language, a proficient beggar and am part of the welcoming committee at Joliman Lawyers.

Background

I am a Jack Russell and joined the Joliman team in December 2020 where I commenced an apprenticeship under the watchful eye of my predecessor Tilly, whom I miss terribly. Now that she has gone, I do my best to further Tilly’s legacy and have made it my own having expanded the legacy to include a welcome cuddle and kiss (when I am allowed to).

I love to visit my work colleagues and make sure they are all ok, especially Charli who gives me treats…. Yum!

Interesting fact

I am loving, sometimes obedient, love to play, chase balls and play fight with the apprentice and half-sister Molly.

In summer, I love to jump in the deep end of the pool when someone throws my ball in. In winter you can find me under the doona.

During my downtime, I love to intensely watch TV and I even try to talk to it. I would like to jump into the TV and play with the animals I see.

I am not a lawyer nor a security guard, I am just real cute!

Molly

Apprentice Top Dog and human trainer

Expertise

I am an expert at being cute and mischievous. Wanna hear something impressive... I can sniff out chicken

I look after stationery and other items my humans leave out using them as teething implements. I don’t understand what my human friend’s fuss about when they return as see my handy work. I have noticed that the humans tend to throw all my toys and teething implements in this big round bucket looking thing.

Background

I am a Jack Russell and younger half-sister to Missy Moo. My patches are similar as Missy Moos only on the opposite side.

I can bark loud when I want to (woof) and love to snuggle under the doona when cold.

I joined world at large, ready or not, in January 2022 and the Joliman team shortly thereafter in March 2022.

I love to roll around in smelly things and use every opportunity open to me to get out the front gate and check out the Rabbit burrows. Don’t try calling me when I am on that mission… I won’t listen.

Interesting fact

I am loving, but disobedient, a tornado of destruction. I love to explore and take off if I can get away with it. I love visiting the girls in the health food shop in Swan Hill and the Fish and Chip shop in Echuca.

I am Missy’s shadow and take every opportunity to play fight with her; I try to show her who’s boss, but I fail poorly ☹

Want to hear something impressive… I have a nose for chicken … did someone say KFC?

I am not a lawyer, admin assistant, mediator, or security guard.

I am just so cute and good-looking even if I do say so myself, woof woof.

Christina Trinci

Paralegal

Expertise

I am the one who answers the phone, so say “Hi” next time you call.

I manage the front office area, ensuring our clients are well looked after.

Background

I joined the Joliman team in 2022. Prior to this, I worked in retail.

I was looking for a change that would challenge me and I can honestly say that each day I am learning something new, which I love!

Interesting fact

I come from a large, loud and loving Italian family.

In my spare time, you will find me spending time with my loud family and friends and tucking into my favourite food - Italian! I love travelling and getting out and about on weekends.

Belinda O’Halloran

Conveyancer

Expertise

All areas of property law including the sale and purchase of your forever home or investment property, retail and farm leases, water shares, and general property transfers.

Background

I began by working in the Travel and Tourism Industry and then discovered conveyancing. In between having children and joining the Joliman Team I worked at a local accounting firm. I am currently completing an Advanced Diploma in Conveyancing.

Interesting fact

I grew up on my Grandparents Family Farm where my parents still live today, I lived in Melbourne and Western Australia for a brief time. I love to travel and look forward to travelling with my Family now that our children are older. Right now, life is all about supporting our children with their various sporting adventures and visiting family and friends.

Louise Hatcher

Paralegal

Expertise

I currently work in Family Law, Independent Children’s Lawyer Work, and Wills & Estates but am an all-round supporter to our amazing team.

Background

I am a born & raised Swan Hill girl.

I have recently completed my Bachelor of Laws with Deakin University and am currently completing my Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice with Leo Cussens Centre for Law. I have been working with Joliman Lawyers for almost four years and have been extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to work alongside the amazing team and gain extensive on-the-job experience.

I am passionate about all things Family Law, but I am also intrigued by Human Rights Law and Environmental Law.

Interesting fact

You’ll always find me sipping on my coffee, no matter the time of day; I’m always the first to suggest a coffee run in the office. I have recently discovered a passion and hobby in ballet, and love twirling around the dance floor. If I’m not in the office, studying, or dancing ballet, you’ll find me spending valuable time with my super independent mini-me daughter.

Hayley Whitfield

Paralegal

Expertise

I completed a Certificate III in Individual Support adding to the knowledge learned I worked three years in the aged care sector gaining valuable life skills such as compassion and empathy.

I work closely with one of our wills and estates experts assisting in Will drafting, Power of Attorneys, administering Deceased Estates and property transfers.

Background

A local of the Swan Hill region, I was born and raised in the area.
I attended the local Swan Hill College, graduating in 2017.

I began studying at Murray Ace at the beginning of 2018 to complete my Individual Support Certificate.

I love to help people and sought a change in careers, joining the Joliman team in August 2021.

Interesting fact

When I’m not in the office you will most likely find me enjoying renovating my home with my partner and in my down time enjoying a lovely platter with a glass of wine in hand.

Maree Coffey

Business Services

Expertise

Managing Trust Account, payroll and deeds

Background

I have over 20 years experience working in a law firm and 30 years experience working in office administration.

Interesting fact

Reading, walking and spending time with family and friends.

Hayley Whitfield

Conveyancer

Expertise

All areas of property law including the sale and purchase of your forever home or investment property, retail and farm leases, water shares, property transfers.

Background

My working career started in retail prior to having children and then I worked briefly in childcare before joining the Joliman Lawyers team in 2018. I worked firstly as a law clerk and then moved into conveyancing where I am currently finishing my Advanced Diploma in Conveyancing.

Interesting fact

In my free time I love to spend time with the family, during winter you can find us playing football and netball for the Tooleybuc Manangatang Saints, and summer sees us travelling around the state, racing Speedway.

Jill Gunn (Jilly, Beanie)

Paralegal

Expertise

Background in Administration, about to start studying Law.

Background

Started assisting management teams straight from Uni, I love helping out, and found myself a Managers Assistant at a winery in the Yarra Valley not long after, where my love for wine developed. I then moved into the dental world before meeting my now husband, having twins and moving up to the country where I landed a job at Joliman's, started conveyancing, (was atrocious) and luckily someone saw something else in me and I’ve been assisting Anthea (one of our solicitors) ever since!

Love my job, love it!

Interesting fact

I will never be Mum of the Year (not through lack of trying to better my mum game). I love champagne, my girls, my fur babies, travelling (not necessarily in that order). “Nothing is Impossible, the word itself say’s I’m Possible”. Strong Women don’t have attitudes, we have standards.

Charli Walsh

Team & Client Success Manager

Expertise

Complex Land Transfers involving Family Trusts and Superannuation Funds Wills, Estates and Family Law

Background

My career in the legal industry began in 2012 when I was offered a position at reception, marking the start of a journey I have not looked back on. In 2018, I joined Jolimans in the Wills and Estates department. However, I discovered my true passion in providing behind-the-scenes support, contributing to the growth and success of the business. I take great pride in assisting our clients to achieve the best possible outcomes and in supporting our team to reach their full potential and excel in all they do.

Interesting fact

I am very passionate about mental health and am a certified Mental Health First Aid Officer in the Legal Industry.

With two children, a small farm, an addiction to showing my horses in the western performance industry and other “accidentally” bringing home new animals for our farm, I am probably the busiest person you will ever meet!

Anthea Toma

Senior Associate
Family, Criminal, Wills & Estates

Expertise

Admitted to practice in 2012, I started with whatever was thrown my way, with a thirst to learn as much as I could. Now after learning much along the way, I mainly practice in Family Law, Criminal Law, Intervention Orders and Wills and Estates.

I appreciate that the matters I deal with are emotionally complex and can be overwhelming. My aim is to provide a relaxed atmosphere to support my clients to be the best they can be.

When it comes to Family Law matters, I favour an out of court approach and try to support clients by making them feel heard and understood whilst maintaining a strategic approach using my extensive experience in both Property and Children’s matters.

With criminal law matters, I pride myself on really getting to know my clients to ensure that the court is given an accurate view of them. I regularly provide assistance in matters raging from driving matters to assaults in the Magistrates Court, to more serious indictable crimes in the County Court.

The other area I work in is estate planning and estate matters. I understand that it can be a daunting and difficult process dealing with the loss of a loved one, I strive to ensure that my client’s feel supported and try to keep the process as straight forward as possible.

Background

I was born and raised in Cohuna, and have lived locally most of my life. I was in year 12 when I decided I might like to become a lawyer. I loved reading and had an interest in learning about the legal system.

I was accepted into a Bachelor of Laws at the University of South Australia in 2009 and headed off to South Australia to complete my degree. I fast tracked my degree and completed it in 3 years by completing three semesters a year. I graduated in 2012, and was lucky enough to walk into a graduate role with Joliman’s straight away, I then made the move back home and have been here ever since.

Whilst I was working at Joliman’s learning the ropes under Justine (principal of the firm). I completed my Diploma of Legal practice with the College of Law in Melbourne. I was admitted to practice in 2012, and was lucky enough to have Justine move my admission.

Outside of work I am a mother of two, one toddler and one four ager. I sit on the local Hospital Board and play netball with my local club, the Cohuna Kangas.

Interesting fact

I am a self-confessed Harry Potter nerd, I have read the entire series at least a dozen times.

Sharee Macfarlane

Solicitor, Power of Attorney, Commercial Leases, LIV Accredited Specialist - Wills & Estates

Expertise

Sharee is an Accredited Specialist in Wills & Estates. Specialising in Wills, Powers of Attorney and Estates, Sharee also assists her clients with Farm Leases, Agreements and Succession Planning including transfers of land and water to family members. Sharee enjoys working alongside her client’s accountants to help our clients with all aspects of their Succession Planning needs. Sharee was born and raised in Swan Hill and is very passionate about providing her local community with an excellent level of service to meet their legal needs.

Background

Sharee graduated from LaTrobe University in 2013 after completing her Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in English Literature. In 2014, Sharee completed her Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice through Australian National University before beginning her career with Joliman Lawyers in 2015 (previously Dwyer Mahon & Robertson). Sharee completed a course of private study in 2022 before successfully passing her exams to become an Accredited Specialist in Wills & Estates with the Law Institute of Victoria in November 2022.

Interesting fact

Outside of work Sharee enjoys horse riding, gardening and making improvements to her little five-acre property. Sharee is a member of several local equestrian clubs and enjoys taking her horses to competitions, clinics, and local pony club rallies. In Feb 2021, she became a qualified Equestrian Preliminary Coach through the National Coaching Accreditation Scheme. Sharee is looking forward to shaking off the covid blues and getting out and about with her gorgeous horse Gia this coming year.

Sophie Fisiak

Solicitor, Family, Wills & Estates, Litigation, Probate

Expertise

I have extensive experience in the areas of Family Law, Wills and Estate disputes and Probate.

Experienced in all aspects of Family Law, I can assist clients with property matters, parenting matters (including relocation and recovery orders), divorce, financial agreements, alternative dispute resolution and/or mediation.

Background

In year 12, when contemplating my future pathway, my Psychology teacher encouraged me to become a psychologist because of my listening skills, empathy and interest in this subject.

I chose a career that combines both psychology and law. I was drawn to Family Law and Estate disputes and pursued a Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Arts at Deakin University.

I became a Lawyer (4 September 2000) because I wanted to help people overcome adversity. My work provides me with the opportunity to do just that.

I understand the sensitive emotions involved in these areas of law and prefer to resolve matters strategically without court intervention where possible. However, on the rare occasion when there is a fight to be had, pass me the boxing gloves!

The most rewarding part about my work is that I help to empower those I assist to make informed decisions, which enable them to move forward during trying times. The best part is knowing that I have made a positive difference in peoples’ lives.

I feel very privileged to be part of the Joliman team, which is a down-to-earth, regional law firm with solid expertise and a huge care factor. After working in the Melbourne CBD for many moons, I ventured into a suburban practice briefly, before joining the talented team at Joliman Lawyers in 2020.

Interesting fact

I’m a wife and mum to three young children (who will make brilliant lawyers one day as they love to argue and are so good at it). Furthermore, they have taught me the meaning of the bumper sticker “mum’s taxi”.

I am very thankful to have discovered pilates, and also try to get to the gym (try being the operative word) regularly. I enjoy hanging out with my fun-loving family and friends, and love trying out different restaurants and cooking new recipes.

Kindness is my favourite word (that’s what I live my life by).
My favourite sound is my children’s giggles and a champagne cork popping (sometimes not in that order)
My favourite combination is a Pepper Jack Shiraz and a double brie cheese
My favourite place is the beach.

Trevor Jolly

Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner, Mediator, General Manager, Parenting Co-ordinator

Expertise

I have a passion for all things Family Law and am a Nationally Accredited Mediator and Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner. I am also a Parenting Coordinator and Conflict Coach.

My experiences in life have given me insight and understanding which enables me to be empathetic and compassionate.

Background

My wife Justine and I commenced Joliman Lawyers in 2002.

I am qualified as a CINERGY Conflict Coach, Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Neuro-Semantics Master Practitioner and a Child Inclusive Practitioner.

I am a member of AIFLAM, Resolutions Institute and am a Justice of the Peace & Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives.

In my previous life I was a Chef.

Interesting fact

I enjoy cooking, eating relaxing and love mowing my lawn on my ride-on mower and little tractor. I love my fur babies . . . my two Jack Russel’s who are never far behind me, at least someone follows my lead.

Justine Bowman

Director
Family, Wills & Estates, Property

Expertise

I was admitted to practice in 2000; my first position was working in Wills & Estates and mortgages.

I set up Joliman Lawyers in 2002 and found my niche in Family Law, Wills & Estates and doing the odd purchase/sale of business.

Whilst I have experience in all the practice areas covered by our firm, I predominantly practice in Family Law.

I am also on the Independent Children’s Lawyer panel in Victoria and New South Wales.

Background

I grew up in Cohuna and have lived locally most of my life on a dairy farm.

I was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to study abroad as an exchange student where I completed my Senior Year of High School in Charlestown, Indiana in the US. From this trip grew my love for travel. Luckily social media has allowed me to keep in touch with my host family and school friends.

At high school I found that I loved the Psychology classes, so I went on to study Psychology at Uni, only to realise that statistics were not for me, and so I deferred. During this time of reflection, I tried something totally different - nannying and milking cows which I also realized were not for me. In 1995 I was excited to be accepted into Bond University on the Gold Coast in Qld, and commenced studying in 1996. I decided to fast track my law degree by completing three semesters per year, and graduated in 1999.

I went on to complete my post-graduate through Leo Cussens, and worked in Melbourne for a couple of years before relocating back home with my partner (now husband) Trevor.

Interesting fact

I love our fur babies, enjoy travelling and going to the odd movie (Gold Glass wherever possible) and eating my husband’s food. It’s a bonus having a chef to cook for me, although the downside is I have to clean up.

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Property and asset distribution

Claiming Bankruptcy to Stop a Property Settlement – What You Need to Know

Can Family Trusts Affect Your Property Settlement Agreement?

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Get in touch

Swan Hill Office

Echuca Office

Cohuna Office

Kerang Office

Jess Harington

Lauren Cherry

Glenys Randall

Lara Noble

Stuart McRae

Olivia Spark

Lachlan Burns

Missy Moo or as I am affectionately called… Moo Moo

Molly

Christina Trinci

Belinda O’Halloran

Louise Hatcher

Hayley Whitfield

Maree Coffey

Hayley Whitfield

Jill Gunn (Jilly, Beanie)

Charli Walsh

Anthea Toma

Sharee Macfarlane

Sophie Fisiak

Trevor Jolly

Justine Bowman