For Bree Mawhinney, studying a Masters in Applied Law through The College of Law meant embracing a career change to private practice. Bree, then a Senior Legal Officer at the Attorney-General’s Department, had spent her career in the criminal law division advising the Federal Government on pardons and appeals regarding federal crimes. Her dream, however, was to move to a smaller practice closer to her Snowy Mountains home and focus on family law.
Bree recently won the Mills Oakley – Sandra Paul Memorial Prize for Best Graduating Student in Family Law, which recognises her for achieving the highest average mark for all Family Law subjects completed. It is a feat all the more remarkable given she studied her Masters while raising young children and helping her husband in his own business.
Insights spoke to Bree about studying – while going into labour – how she struck a balance between study, family and business, and what she has planned next.
“After I became pregnant with my third child, I knew I wanted to change my career direction and go into private practice. The College of Law offered the best online platform to complete a Masters, and I wanted my study to be practically focused,” said Bree.
Studying while raising three young children was not always easy. “Lack of sleep and lack of time made it hard, but I would just have to set aside time and try to totally focus. I do remember actually studying while in labour with my third child, Sage. Soon after she was born, my final end of semester exam was due, which I somehow managed to complete!”
Sage fortunately slept well for her first week, and Bree’s mother came to assist. “I had a lot of late nights with my youngest asleep on my lap while I typed my assessments,” Bree said.
Regular exercise and a supportive husband helped Bree find her focus.
“Keeping up my passion for running gave me the energy to face the day,” said Bree. “Lots of coffee, followed by green tea, chocolate and the occasional glass of red wine helped too! Every so often, I would ‘politely’ suggest to my husband that he take the kids out for at least an hour to allow me to study. You just get it done.”
For Bree, banking on a practically-oriented Masters to help her switch her career track has paid off. She now works in private practice in a small Jindabyne firm, High Legal Australia, alongside the principal director who is also completing a Master of Laws (Applied Law) majoring in Wills & Estates at The College of Law.
“We have recently set up an office,” enthused Bree. “We assist clients in a variety of matters, including family law.”
Bree very much enjoys the role. “It is thoroughly rewarding and offers good work/life balance – including lots of skiing! I live in a beautiful part of Australia. It’s a great place to raise a family, so I’m content to stay.”
Her dream job in law: judge. “Since a young age, I’ve thought about becoming a judge,” said Bree. “I’m not too sure it will come to fruition. My work/life balance is too good at the moment to give up.”
If you're interested in commencing your own LLM studies, have a look at the College’s Master of Laws (Applied Law) programs. Whatever your goals may be, the College’s Postgraduate Applied Law Programs can give you the confidence and knowledge you need to master your career.
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