Shila graduated from Auckland University, NZ on 5 May 1983 with her law degree. She was admitted in ACT as a Barrister and Solicitor in June 1987 and in Queensland as a Solicitor in July 1987. She became a Queensland Law Society Accredited Family Law Specialist in 1996, having practiced almost exclusively in family law matters since 1987. She is regarded as a leading family law practitioner in Brisbane.
Shila offers a wealth of experience in family law matters, including property settlements involving at times complicated corporate and trust structures and issues of law, and likewise in parenting cases involving simple and complex family dynamics and issues, de facto relationship cases and mediation as well as court litigation. She has developed a deep understanding of clients problems and needs and the dynamics involved in their particular circumstances.
Shila offers a balanced, practical and considered approach to all matters undertaken by her. She prides herself in providing clients with an honest and complete picture of the pros and cons of a particular approach, as well as an understanding of the law and how the courts may approach their matter, before they make any decision regarding their family law issue. She encourages and ensures her clients make their own decisions after being fully informed about all the circumstances of their particular case and their options.
Shila is highly committed to negotiating and achieving settlement outcomes for clients where possible, without the need to commence court proceedings. However she is also skilled in litigation where court intervention is necessary. Shila has completed and obtained certificates in Mediation Skills and Collaborative Practice of Law.
She demonstrates integrity and excellent listening and analytical skills, together with an open and an approachable and a matter of fact manner. She is dedicated to performing her job with professionalism and sensitivity.
Shila is also on the select Panel of private lawyers appointed as Independent Childrens Lawyer in complex parenting cases. She is a Family Law member of the Law Council of Australia, a member of Queensland Family Law Practitioners Association, Womens Legal Service, Women Lawyers Association of Queensland and North Brisbane Lawyers Association. The newly launched Child Protection Practitioners Association of Queensland Limited (CPPAQ) recently accepted Shilas application for admission of membership and she is a current member for the year commencing 1 September 2011.
In addition, Shila and her firm assist clients with wills and the administration of deceased estates.
