OUR TEAM

TILLY RYAN

Tilly has a friendly and approachable manner that immediately puts her clients at ease. She is empathetic in her nature and helps her clients work through complex emotions to get to the real issues. Tilly is a strong advocate who will fight for her clients best interests because she wants to achieve the best possible outcomes for them. Tilly is an avid listener with an ability to quickly grasp the issues and consider the options available for her clients. She is committed to helping her clients see past the emotion of their situation to find out what really is the issue and what their goals are in the short and long term. Her insight and compassion helps her empower her clients to move through each stage of their personal issue and navigate the often overwhelming requirements of the legal system. She has a huge heart and genuinely cares about her clients’ wellbeing. She is determined to ‘better’ the practice of family law.

Tilly was admitted to practice as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland in 2007 and since this time she has worked tirelessly to support and help people through life changing situations. Tilly has a commitment to social justice and has worked across the legal and charity sectors, including as CEO of Melanoma Patients Australia and as a volunteer Director of the Asbestosis and Mesothelioma Association of Australia. Through these roles Tilly has travelled extensively throughout metropolitan and regional Australia and has seen first hand the impact living remotely can have on people’s ability to access quality, reliable and affordable services in their local communities.

She is the proud mother of three beautiful children who she raises with her husband, Sean, in the Gold Coast Hinterland. Tilly enjoys spending time with her parents at their farm in the Somerset Valley and taking family holidays in the Northern Rivers and NSW North Coast. She can also be found indulging her passion for improving youth literacy and promoting creative arts through her various roles volunteering with Somerset Storyfest. Tilly is an avid supporter of creative arts and enjoys visiting and supporting regional and community art galleries and programs.

MANAGING PARTNER

RACHEL ROWLANDS

PARTNER

Rachel has worked exclusively in family law since her admission in 2011, bringing over a decade of experience. She has worked in both top-tier and boutique law firms. Rachel holds a Bachelor of Laws and International Business from Griffith University and is admitted as a solicitor to both the High Court of Australia and the Supreme Court of Queensland. Rachel has extensive experience in a wide range of family law matters, including high net worth financial matters, complex parenting disputes (including high conflict and relocation matters), and child support. She also has significant experience representing clients in relation to domestic violence matters and child protection.

Rachel is a warm and compassionate family lawyer who pairs genuine care with unwavering strength. As a strong advocate for her clients, Rachel understands the complexities involved in family law disputes and approaches each case with sensitivity and a focus on achieving the best possible resolution for her clients.

At SR Family Law, Rachel leads with a people-first philosophy, understanding that every matter is deeply personal and deserves both empathy and clarity. Known for her resolution-focused approach, Rachel’s determined mindset allows her to manage highly sensitive and complex disputes while keeping clients informed, empowered, and supported throughout the process.

Outside the office, Rachel is a busy mother of four, often found on the sidelines of a sports field or in the audience of a dance competition; balancing family life with the same dedication, focus, and child-centred perspective she brings to her work every day.

Memberships

Queensland Law Society
Gold Coast District Law Association
Family Law Section of the Law Council of Australia
Family Law Practitioners Association

LISA MIDDLETON

As your lawyer Lisa will bring to your matter a deep insight into people and business. This insight has developed through her life and business experiences. Lisa brings to her work a unique empathy with and understanding of, client needs, with a focus on finding a resolution without resorting to litigation. She is passionate about family law, and the opportunity this presents, for her to advise and support her clients through their family law issue in a way that empowers them to achieve a timely outcome. Lisa was admitted to practice as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland in 2020 and has focused on her passion for family law since then, volunteering in Community Legal and then working on the Gold Coast.

Lisa has seen the trauma faced by young women in jail, she attained an Honours degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice and her thesis on dealing with trauma in teenage girls in custody was published in The Prison Journal in 2019, this knowledge informs her work in family law. Fluent in French and Italian, prior to coming to the Law, Lisa worked as a legal translator for a law firm in Florence, Italy, and spent many years running her own café and catering businesses in Byron Bay, NSW. These experiences have given Lisa a different perspective through which she engages with people and places, drawing on her understanding of differences in languages and culture.

Lisa is however not all about work, married with two children, life outside the office is busy and Lisa enjoys literature, Japanese cuisine and not surprisingly Italian cuisine, gardening, yoga, and martial arts.

SENIOR ASSOCIATE

LIZZY HOLLIDGE

SENIOR ASSOCIATE

Lizzy is an experienced family lawyer with a genuine passion for supporting families and children through separation. Warm and empathetic by nature, she advocates strongly and tirelessly for the best outcomes for her clients.

Admitted in 2006, Lizzy holds a Bachelor of Laws with Honours and a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) from the University of Adelaide. She has a wealth of experience in protecting the safety of clients and their children while navigating the family law and domestic violence systems. Her meticulous attention to detail allows her to support clients and achieve just and sustainable outcomes.

Lizzy is also highly skilled in financial matters and brings real depth to complex property settlements – an area where her dual academic background gives clients particular confidence. Her career spans extensive experience in private practice, as well as work in government and the community legal sector.

Outside of work, Lizzy enjoys spending time near the beach with her husband, their three children, and the family dachshund.

JESS HOY

SOLICITOR

Jess is a dedicated family lawyer who is passionate about helping clients navigate some of life’s most challenging circumstances with empathy and professionalism.

With more than eight years’ experience in the legal profession, Jess began her career in property and conveyancing before discovering her passion for family law. Jess was admitted to the Supreme Court of New South Wales in 2024 and the High Court of Australia in 2025 and can assist with a range of family law matters, including property and parenting matters, divorce, domestic violence, and Binding Financial Agreements.

Jess is committed to providing clear, honest, and practical advice tailored to each client’s circumstances. She understands that family law matters are often emotionally challenging, and prides herself on creating a supportive, welcoming environment where clients know they have someone in their corner. Known for her approachable nature, strong work ethic, and attention to detail, Jess focuses on achieving practical outcomes while building genuine relationships. Her goal is to make what can feel like an overwhelming process, a little easier.

Outside of the office, Jess is an active member of her local Rugby League Club, where she also holds a seat on the board. You’ll also find her enjoying time with family and friends, playing a round of golf, or out with her kelpie, Bella.

ANALIESE PARKER

SOLICITOR

Analiese completed a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Communications at Bond University, followed by a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice. She has since been admitted to practice as a Solicitor in both the Supreme Court of Queensland and the High Court of Australia.

Analiese developed a passion for family law throughout her studies and has focused her practice exclusively on family law, working across a broad range of matters including parenting disputes, property and financial matters, financial agreements, and domestic violence matters. She understands the emotional and practical challenges clients face during family law proceedings and approaches each matter with clarity, empathy, and professionalism.

Known for her calm and client-centred approach, Analiese provides practical advice and steady guidance at every stage of the process. She is committed to resolving disputes efficiently while minimising stress and conflict, ensuring her clients feel informed, supported, and confident in the decisions they make.

Outside of the office, Analiese is dedicated to training for triathlons, bringing the same focus, discipline, and determination to her sport as she does to her work with clients.

SHERRIE SMITH

SENIOR PARALEGAL

With over 20 years working exclusively in family law, Sherrie brings a depth of knowledge and experience to her role that few can match. While she has experience across all areas of law, family law is where she feels most at home. She began her family law career at what was then the largest family law firm on the Gold Coast – and one of the largest in Australia – and has built a comprehensive understanding of the law and the court system in the years since.

Exceptionally organised and efficient, Sherrie knows the law and court processes inside out, and her calm, steady presence is felt across the whole office. Her experience makes her a trusted resource for the wider legal support team, who regularly draw on her knowledge when they need an answer

Known for her compassion and her ability to relate to clients, Sherrie understands that a family law matter is often a stressful and emotional time filled with uncertainty. She takes genuine care in supporting clients through the process and works closely with our lawyers to help achieve a favourable outcome in every matter.

Outside of work, Sherrie enjoys crocheting and spending time with her family, including her two adult children. She and her sister share a love of road trips, often heading out to fossick for sapphires in the Gemfields of Central Queensland. Sherrie is also a passionate advocate for Brain Cancer Awareness.

LATEESHA BELL

SENIOR PARALEGAL

With over 15 years of experience in Family Law, Lateesha is a valuable and trusted member of our team. Known for her professionalism, compassion, calm presence and attention to detail, she provides steady support to clients during some of life’s most challenging times.

Lateesha began her career in Brisbane before relocating to the Gold Coast, where she has continued to build her expertise. She works closely with our lawyers to ensure every matter is handled with care, precision, and empathy.

Outside the office, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, travelling, relaxing at the beach, and catching up with friends.

SHAHENA STANFORD

JUNIOR PARALEGAL & CLIENT LIAISON

As a Junior Paralegal and Client Liaison, Shahena is often one of the first people a client speaks with, guiding them through their initial enquiry and helping them navigate what can be a challenging and emotional legal journey. She takes the time to listen, putting clients at ease and making sure they feel heard and understood before their matter even begins. Known for her empathy, professionalism, and strong communication skills, Shahena is committed to ensuring every client feels supported and informed from their very first conversation with the firm.

Shahena brings a diverse professional background to her role, having spent five years as a Flight Attendant before managing co-curricular programs at a leading Gold Coast private school – experience that sharpened her communication, organisation, and relationship skills. Alongside her role at the firm, she is currently undertaking a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Justice, strengthening her legal knowledge and her commitment to a career in the profession. This combination of practical experience, academic dedication, and genuine care for people allows her to connect with clients and support them throughout their matter.

Outside of work, Shahena has a passion for adventure and personal growth. An avid solo traveller, she has explored destinations around the world independently and completed the challenging trek to Everest Base Camp on her own. When she’s not planning her next climbing adventure, you’ll find her enjoying a quiet self-care day at home with an iced latte in hand or unwinding with her favourite video game.

AMANDA HARRISON

ACCOUNTS MANAGER

Amanda brings over ten years’ experience working in the legal industry starting in administrative and secretarial roles and culminating in the last five years’ supporting legal firms, such as SR Family Law to effectively manage the firms accounts and financial records. Amanda is committed to assisting clients with all financial aspects of their family law matter and ensuring a smooth process for clients and lawyers alike.

Amanda’s experience is backed by nationally recognised qualifications in Financial Services, Business and Operations, which means Amanda brings a strong understanding of working within legal accounts and administration to her role as Accounts Manager at SR Family Law.

Outside of work Amanda likes spending time with her family, friends & dog, she enjoys the coastal dining scene and going for walks in nature.

Carmen De Bruin

Practice manager

Carmen is driven by a genuine passion for people, ensuring that every client who walks through the doors of The Meeting Place @ HQ or calls SR Family Law’s office receives the respect and care they deserve. With a friendly demeanor and adept organisational skills, Carmen excels at fostering connections and ensuring smooth operations.

Originally from South Africa, Carmen began her career with a degree in Communications and Journalism, honing her knack for storytelling and interpersonal connections. After relocating to Australia with her husband Claude, she ventured into the legal world, balancing roles as a Public Relations Executive, supporting her husband’s law firm, managing an online legal platform, and working part-time for barristers in chambers.

In her free time, Carmen enjoys outdoor adventures with her husband, three lovely daughters, and their furry companions. Carmen also finds joy in reading, jogging, hiking, and hosting friends.

GAIL HAMAWI

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR & RECEPTIONIST

Originally from Scotland, Gail has called Australia home for 25 years. After first living in Sydney, she settled on the Gold Coast, where she lives with her husband, Mark, and their two children, and is an integral part of the team at SR Family Law.

Gail brings a wealth of experience in administration, client service, and business management, having worked in the travel industry and later managed her own accounting practice. As the first point of contact for clients, she is known for her warm, approachable nature and takes pride in making everyone feel welcomed and at ease from their very first interaction with the firm. Her attention to detail and commitment to exceptional service help keep the firm running smoothly, allowing the legal team to focus on achieving the best outcomes for clients. Gail is also the friendly face behind The Meeting Place @ HQ, looking after bookings and hosting those who hire our rooms.

Outside of work, Gail enjoys spending time with her family and friends. A former gymnast and gymnastics coach, she stays active with yoga, Pilates, travelling, snowboarding, and scuba diving, making the most of everything the Gold Coast has to offer.

HATTIE MILES

LEGAL ASSISTANT

Hattie is currently in her third and penultimate year of a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Business at Bond University. Passionate about developing her legal knowledge, she enjoys supporting the SR Family Law team and its clients as she gains valuable practical experience in the profession. Warm and approachable, Hattie takes pride in providing reliable support to colleagues and clients alike.

Originally from Auckland, New Zealand, Hattie has called the Gold Coast home for the past three years while completing her studies. Outside of work and study, she enjoys exploring local cafés, baking, and spending time by the ocean, where she can often be found walking along the beach.

SOPHIE HEALY

LEGAL ASSISTANT

Sophie is currently in her final year of a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of International Relations at Bond University and is enthusiastic about developing her knowledge of Australian law while broadening her international perspective – something she embraced through a semester exchange at the University of Texas at Austin in late 2025.

Sophie enjoys working alongside the supportive team at SR Family Law, where she continues to build her legal skills and where the culture has reinforced the value of empathy and the human side of the law for her.

Originally from Adelaide and inspired to study law by her father, a barrister, Sophie has called the Gold Coast home for the past four years while completing her studies. Outside of work and university, she is passionate about travel, exercise, reading, and meeting new people – she’ll happily strike up a conversation with a stranger on a plane, one of which led to a lifelong pen-pal in Wisconsin.

FAMILY LAW SERVICES - REGIONS WE SERVE

Your Family Law Experts
from the Country to the Coast

OUR TEAM