L-R: Juliet Kaberry, Shonia Poole. Kayla Pincham, Jacob Givney & Corey Tibbs

A small group of law students who are studying through the UNE School of Law, were lucky enough to have lunch with Judge Terry in her chambers. Judge Terry is currently in Armidale as part of the Federal Circuit Court. The students were invited to have lunch with Judge Terry in order to thank them for volunteering with the Family Law Partnerships Network (FLPN) kiosk.

Judge Terry was able to inspire Kayla, Shonia, Corey and Jacob with her own professional story. She spoke of her days as a law student at Sydney University where the focus was on legal history, real property and constitutional law. She was amazed when the students told her about the breadth of courses which are now offered as part of a law degree.

Interestingly, when Julia Werren (who accompanied the students) spoke about her interest in social media, Judge Terry noted that social media is also relevant to family law cases. For example, is it ethical for family law parties to access their opponent’s social media sites?

One student, Kayla Pincham, spoke of her experience with the kiosk and lunch with Judge Terry – 

‘I volunteered at the Family Law Pathways Network (FLPN) Kiosk held at the Armidale Local Court on Tuesday 27th February 2018. During my time volunteering I learnt a lot. For example, there are multiple avenues, courses and services that are available for people whose relationships have broken down. There are also courses which help children cope with problems that may be occurring at home and/ or at school. This includes personal problems that children may be dealing with such as depression and stress.

To thank us for volunteering our time, Joanna Birtles from the FLPN organised a lunch with Judge Terry of the Federal Circuit Court. This was a very satisfying opportunity to be given because interaction between law students and the judiciary doesn’t happen very often. It was very insightful to listen to Her Honour speak about how she became a judge and her experience practising as a solicitor. 

All in all, it was a great experience and I am very thankful for the opportunity.’ (edited)

Thank you to Judge Terry for taking the time to talk to our students. Also thank you to Joanna Birtles from Centacare in Tamworth, for providing these students with an amazing opportunity!