REBECCA CURRAN

BURLEY GRIFFIN CHAMBERS

QUALIFICATIONS BA LLB

DATE OF ADMISSION OCTOBER 1993 CALL TO THE BAR JULY 2012

PREVIOUSLY PHELPS REID CANBERRA. RYAN KRUGER BRISBANE.

CONTACT EMAIL rcurran@bgchambers.com.au PHONE 02 6230 6912

CURRICULUM VITAE

Tell us about three particularly interesting matters that you have worked on either at the bar or as a solicitor.

My top three areas of interest: - As Registrar of the Family Court of Australia and

Federal Magistrates Court (as it then was) in

Brisbane from 2008–2012. I had the great privilege of working with and learning from a number of judges. Parenting and property matters often have an international element to them. Identifiying and dealing with complex issues of the most appropriate forum is a rewarding area of practice. - I have more recently appeared in a number of coronial inquests as Counsel Assisting the

Coroner and representing interested parties.

The area is of great interest to me and has involved a steep learning curve. - I have a national practice as a mediator in civil litigation with work in the area of Historical

Abuse litigation. This has provided the opportunity to work in many jurisdictions with inspirational junior and senior counsel throughout Australia. I engage in trauma informed practice and work with a diversity of clients that has been both challenging and rewarding.

What particular areas of interest/expertise do you hold?

I have practiced primarily in family law but also have a practice that includes coronial law, civil practice including historical abuse and medical negligence, family provision and estate matters.

What inspired you to join the bar?

My first legal job was as Associate to ACT Magistrate Michael Somes back in the day of committal hearings. I learnt a great deal from him about court craft, evidence and the workings of the court. I was so fortunate to have such an opportunity as a third year law student with no legal exposure or training having come from a long line of farmers. I have remained intrigued with advocacy since that time.

What is one key trend or issue you are seeing in your preferred area(s) of practice?

The growing role of (and craft of) Alternative Dispute Resolution in its many forms.

Who have been the strongest influences in your life, e.g. a mentor or someone who has inspired you?

My husband was my greatest supporter and remains my inspiration due to his unwavering determination, courage and strength.

What’s your favourite court room technology and/or what are your tips for appearing in court (whether in person or virtually)?

My favourite tip comes from working with The Hon. Justice Peter Murphy in the Family Court of Australia in Brisbane - know the orders you want, know the jurisdiction of the court to make them and know the evidence upon which you rely. Simple but essential.

What’s the most interesting/funny/quirky/ strangest experience/incident you have come across while in the court room/at the bar?

On one occasion a litigant in person was making a ‘citizens arrest’ of the Judge on the bench for perverting the course of justice. The judge commented that she had a right to remain silent and was intent on exercising that right until the court security arrived.

PERSONAL QUESTIONS

What is your favourite album/band/book/ movie/podcast/show and why?

All things Disney but particularly The Lion King because it is the circle of life.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Anything that involves spending time with my remarkable and inspirational children and anything that involves being near a beach. Also, to be honest, anything that involves champagne.

Tell us something about yourself we may not expect.

I sit on the ACT Rugby Union judiciary.

What is your favourite cuisine/cookbook/ restaurant/signature dish and why?

Rack of lamb with rosemary because all of my kids love it.