Kevin Vierboom - Principal Solicitor
Kevin is an experienced investigative and litigation lawyer. He has conducted and managed numerous complex fraud and criminal investigations. As an advocate, Kevin uses his investigative skills to identify practical lines of defence in matters before the Courts.
Qualifications
Supreme Court Admission 1991
Solicitors Admission Board 1992
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice 1992
Master of Laws 1997
Bronwyn Dwyer - Senior Consultant
Bronwyn was admitted to practice in 1991 having completed a combined Arts/Law Degree at Macquarie University in 1990. She commenced practice in Sydney working in prominent law firms dealing with family law, criminal law, insurance, employment, personal injury, land and environment matters and commercial litigation.
Bronwyn has conducted major inquiry work including the Wood Police Royal Commission. She practised as a partner with Back Schwartz Vaughan in Sydney and has conducted complex litigation across most jurisdictions.
After relocating to the Central Coast, Bronwyn joined the Fourtree Lawyers team and brings a wealth of experience to the firm. Bronwyn is currently a Director of Breakers Country Club and is obsessed with reigning in her mischievous handicap!
Qualifications
Supreme Court Admission 1991
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice 1990
Bachelor of Laws 1990
Bachelor of Politics 1990
Denise McCarthy - Senior Associate
Denise McCarthy was first admitted to practice in 1992 and is an experienced court advocate representing clients in criminal, civil and traffic matters. Denise was highly regarded as an associate lecturer in commercial and consumer law at Sydney University for six years before returning to private practice.
Denise is results driven and meticulous in her preparation. Her focused approach allows her to gain real insight into each client's circumstances and to achieve the best possible results in court. She will explain the proceedings in plain English so that you feel comfortable about going to court and know what to expect at every stage of your matter.
Qualifications
Supreme Court Admission 1992
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice 1991
Bachelor of Laws 1991
Luke Del Monte - Senior Associate
Luke is admitted to the roll of lawyers in both the Supreme Court of New South Wales, the High Court of Australia and is a member of Legal Aid’s Summary and Indictable Criminal Law Solicitor panels.
Luke advises clients in serious and complex criminal matters having acted for clients in a number of highly publicised cases. His work includes representing clients charged with Murder, Terrorism and in a number of drug importations matters involving some of the largest quantities in Australia’s history.
Prior to joining Fourtree Lawyers, Luke worked for a highly regarded Criminal Law firm in Sydney and has also worked in New York within the area of medical negligence law.
Luke is incredibly dedicated to the practice, and prides himself on a pragmatic and client-focused approach to the law in pursuit of his clients’ best interests.
Qualifications
Supreme Court Admission 2016
High Court Admission 2016
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice 2016
Bachelor of Laws
Bachelor of Arts (Media)
Lydia Medcalf – Senior Associate
In 2016, Lydia completed her Bachelor of Laws and Diploma of Legal Practice at the University of Newcastle, having previously completed a Bachelor of Arts in 2014. She was admitted as a lawyer of the Supreme Court of New South Wales and the High Court of Australia in 2017.
Prior to joining Fourtree Lawyers, Lydia practised in Victoria for a year before relocating to south coast NSW and practising in Nowra for almost 5 years.
Lydia primarily practises in family law, criminal law and provides advice in estate planning and civil litigation matters. Lydia is experienced in all aspects of family law including complex financial and parenting matters, and regularly attends mediations, conciliation conferences and hearings at the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. She represents clients in criminal and traffic matters including assault, drink driving, domestic violence offences, drug offences and Apprehended Violence Orders.
Lydia confidently and strongly advocates for her clients in and out of Court and handles all matters with compassion and sensitivity.
Qualifications
High Court Admission 2017
Supreme Court Admission 2017
Diploma of Legal Practice 2016
Bachelor of Laws (Hons) 2016
Bachelor of Arts 2014
Memberships
NSW Law Society
Legal Aid Family Law panel
Legal Aid Summary Crime panel
Legal Aid Indictable Crime panel
Mitchell Hickey - Solicitor
Qualifications
Memberships
Legal Aid Civil Law panel
Thomas Eckersley - Solicitor
In 2019 Tom completed his Bachelor of Criminology and Bachelor of Laws at the University of New England. From there he completed his Graduate Diploma of Legal practice in 2020 and was admitted as a lawyer in the Supreme Court of NSW in the same year.
Joining Fourtree Lawyers in early 2024, Tom completed a majority of his practice in the Central West of NSW, gaining experience across multiple areas of Law. He can assist in a broad range of areas including Wills and Estates, Criminal and Traffic Law, Conveyancing, and, Commercial Law. Tom has a keen interest in expanding his knowledge in Family Law.
In his spare time, Tom enjoys going along to support his second favourite team, the Newcastle Knights, going to the gym, hanging out with his rescue dog and making a few divots at the golf course.
Qualifications
Memberships
NSW Supreme Court Admission 2020
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice 2020
Bachelor of Laws 2019
Bachelor of Criminology 2019
Hannah Bramich - Solicitor
Hannah completed her Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Law, and Diploma of Legal Practice at the University of Newcastle in 2020.
In 2021 she began practicing on the South Coast of NSW where she regularly appeared in Milton and Nowra Local Court and the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.
Since joining Fourtree Lawyers, Hannah continues to appear before the Local Court, District Court, Federal Circuit, and Family Court of Australia. Her practice areas include family law, criminal law, traffic law as well as wills and estate planning.
Away from the office Hannah enjoys the gym, reading, exploring local beaches, and watching documentaries.
Qualifications
High Court Admission 2021
Supreme Court Admission 2021
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice 2020
Bachelor of Laws (Hons) 2020
Bachelor of Arts 2018
Memberships
NSW Law Society
Legal Aid Family Law panel
Legal Aid Summary Crime panel
Ofeina Hushon - Solicitor
Ofeina was admitted to practice having completed his Bachelor of Laws at the University of New England in 2020 and a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice in 2021.
Prior to joining the Fourtree Lawyers team, Ofeina worked in the Department of Communities and Justice where he was responsible for the management of people on community-based sentences, assisting in their successful reintegration back into society, as well as providing advice to Courts and release authorities regarding sentencing and parole.
Through his experience, Ofeina is able to draw on his ability to engage and motivate a wide audience and translate complex legal information in a concise and pragmatic manner. As such, Ofeina seeks to assist everyday people navigate through the Criminal Justice system in a client focused and holistic manner.
When not at work, Ofeina enjoys watching and playing rugby, going to the gym, and spending time with his family and friends.
Qualifications
NSW Supreme Court Admission 2021
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice 2021
Bachelor of Laws 2020
Cert IV Correctional Practice 2018
Bachelor of Arts (Political Science) 2009
Memberships
NSW Law Society
Legal Aid Summary Crime panel
Bryce Lewis - Solicitor
Bryce brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the legal system, stemming from his previous role as a federal prosecutor with the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) and a successful career as a registered nurse.
As a federal prosecutor with the CDPP, Bryce was able to hone his litigation skills and gained extensive experience in Commonwealth criminal law. Whilst at the CDPP Bryce worked on a wide range of complex cases, from white-collar crimes to serious criminal offences and has appeared in the Sydney District Court, Magistrates Court and Supreme Court.
Bryce utilises his experience as a registered nurse which allows him to connect with clients on a personal level, understand their needs, and provide them with exceptional legal representation. His dedication to justice, coupled with a diverse background, sets him apart as a solicitor who truly cares about his clients' well-being and is committed to making a positive impact on the legal field.
Qualifications
Supreme Court Admission 2022
High Court Admission 2022
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice 2022
Juris Doctor
Bachelor of Nursing
Memberships
NSW Law Society
Cidney Jenkins – Solicitor
Cidney is a recent graduate of the University of Newcastle. After completing her Juris Doctor and Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice in 2022, she was admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW in February 2023.
Cidney felt compelled to pursue a career in criminal law after her experience serving as a juror. She has a deep appreciation for the role that a solicitor plays in assisting clients to navigate the complex legal system. Cidney is result-driven and passionate about providing a client-focused approach to all legal matters.
When not at work, Cidney is a proud dog-mum, keen gardener, and amateur chef.
Qualifications
Supreme Court Admission 2023
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice 2023
Juris Doctor (JD) 2022
Bachelor of Social Science (Sociology & Anthropology) 2019
Jo Maclean Childs – Licenced Conveyancer
Jo is an organisational superstar who joined the Fourtree Lawyers team in 2021. She co-ordinates Newcastle reception, liaises with clients, arranges appointments, assists the Family Law Team with administrative support and attends to all our Conveyancing needs.
Jo began her career as a Legal Secretary over 38 years ago and gained experience over the years on the Central Coast, running her own Conveyancing Business for over 18 years and in more recent years in the Hunter Valley and Newcastle.
When she is not busy keeping the Newcastle office running smoothly, Jo loves exploring the historical aspects and townships of the Hunter Valley with her family and friends and home life in her garden.
Qualifications
BCom(Mgmt) 2002
Licenced Conveyancer 1202622
Justice of the Peace 128256
Jane Hogan - Practice Manager
Before embarking on a career in the legal sphere, Jane held a number of senior roles in the marketing and manufacturing industires including general manager, marketing director, creative director, and headed up numerous international logistics & distribution projects.
Her diverse experience allows Jane to communicate openly with people from a wide range of backgrounds and to put the law into context with a practical and common sense approach when supporting our clients.
One of Jane's strengths is her ability to translate legal concepts into straightforward, plain English. She believes it is important that advice is communicated as simply as possible, without complicated legal jargon.
Appointments
Sabrina James - Personal Assistant
Sabrina joined Fourtree Lawyers in 2023, bringing with her extensive administrative and office support experience. Sabrina thrives in fast-paced environments, and you will always see her with a big smile on her face.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, feeding her caffeine addiction, and curling up on the lounge with a good book or movie.
Lorren Peterson – Legal Support & Marketing
Lorren joined Fourtree Lawyers in 2022. She is a powerhouse providing administrative support to our Criminal Law team and is highly efficient and motivated. Lorren draws from a depth of experience working in the tourism and real estate industries. In addition to legal support, with her passion for graphic design and social media management Lorren has become an integral part of managing and driving our marketing projects.
When Lorren is not at work you will find her in the pits supporting the 117 Motorsport F1 Power Boat team. She also loves the beach, boating, and rolling out a swag in the great outdoors.
Qualifications
BBus (Tour&Hosp)
Certificate IV in Real Estate Practice
Certificate of Registration Assistant Agent Real Estate
Catherine Shiells – Legal Aid & Trust Funds
Catherine joined Fourtree Lawyers in 2020. Bringing with her experience of 20+ years working within high-level administration based roles. She began her career as a Legal Secretary in Sydney after graduating from St Patricks Business College. From her first job with Phillips Fox she progressed through a number of fields, including The Sydney Olympic Games Organising Committee, Banking & Finance, and Advertising.
Her role at Fourtree Lawyers is to be responsible for the finalisation of all criminal law matters financially prior to their final Court date. She is also the key admin contact for all of Fourtree Lawyers Legal Aid matters. She also assists general with administration related tasks in the Newcastle office.
Catherine made the move from Sydney to the Central Coast 10 years ago with her husband and young family. When not working she can be found either at the beach, enjoying a coffee in the local cafés & exploring the Coast with her family & rescue pup Alphie.
Yasmina Hill – Office Administrator
Yasmina joined Fourtree Lawyers in early 2023. Yasmina has many years of administration experience working in high pressure environments meeting tight deadlines. Client satisfaction is always number one to Yasmina.
When not at work Yasmina likes to spend time with her family and going to the beach.
Qualifications
Certificate IV Business Administration
Alana Goodwin – Legal Support, Family Law
Alana joined Fourtree Lawyers in mid-2023, bringing with her 5 years of experience in the Legal Industry.
Alana provides invaluable administrative support to our Family Law Solicitors enabling them to deliver the best results for our clients. Alana understands that the whole family law process is daunting and hopes to make clients feel comfortable and safe from their first call.
Outside of work, Alana involves herself in the community playing soccer and supporting many other local teams. She also enjoys spending time with her friends.
Qualifications
Certificate III Business & Administration
Isabella de Wit - Receptionist
Isabella joined Fourtree Lawyers in 2023. Isabella can be found behind the reception desk at our Newcastle office assisting the Family, Criminal and Employment Law teams. She enjoys being able to aid a variety of clients with their enquiries.
After graduating from RMIT and thoroughly enjoying her criminology studies, Isabella decided the next step for her was to pursue a legal career. Isabella is currently studying her Juris Doctor and is scheduled to graduate at the end of 2024. Her professional legal training at a small criminal law firm further cemented her interest in criminal law and drew her to our practice.
Outside of work, Isabella enjoy hosting dinners with friends, reading a good thriller, and spending time in the sun.
Qualifications
Diploma of Languages (French)
Bachelor of Arts (Criminology and Psychology)
Natalee Hawkins – Receptionist
Greeting you with a warm welcome and a smile as you first walk through our Erina office doors, Natalee brings a vivacious cheerfulness to her surrounding environment and enjoys assisting each client with her kind-hearted and professional demeanour.
She commenced her career as a Legal Secretary and has 10+ years’ experience working in high-level administrative roles for the last few years worked as a Mental Health Support Worker, supporting some of our most vulnerable community members.
Natalee strives to provide exceptional customer service to our clients and support to both offices. Natalee is all about ensuring a great work life balance. When she is not in the office, she is exploring the lovely beaches of the Central Coast with her three young children.
Qualifications
Diploma of Business Administration/Legal Services
Certificate IV in Community Services