Sunshine Coast local Jessica Popple is passionate about practising law in her local community. Jessica works as a family lawyer for Pippa Colman & Associates, a role she started during COVID-19, and serves as President of the Sunshine Coast Law Association. A decade after graduating high school, Jessica completed a Master of Applied Law (Family Law), and shared with us her career to date, how her studies have helped her progress through the profession, and her work for the Sunshine Coast legal fraternity.

What did you enjoy most about your College of Law LLM?

I loved the opportunity to connect with other young lawyers also studying the program. I also loved the advanced parenting course, and the opportunity to learn about different areas of family law that we may not come across every day.

What was your first job in law? 

I worked in a small general practice in the Noosa Hinterland.

What led to your current role?

After the pandemic hit, I was offered a role with Pippa Colman & Associates. The firm culture is one of my favourite aspects of this job. We have a great team that makes coming to work a lot more enjoyable.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your role? 

Being able to help clients in one of the most traumatic times of their lives. It’s such an emotional time for them, so being able to help and relate to them is most rewarding. Also being given the opportunity to learn something new every day is incredibly satisfying.

How have your studies helped you at work?

It’s given me confidence when providing clients with advice. It’s also given me the opportunity to be able to feel comfortable advising clients in a broader range of areas in family law.

What attracted you to represent Sunshine Coast lawyers as President of the Sunshine Coast Law Association? 

I have been a member of the SCLA since I was at University. I looked up to (and still do) to the committee and past presidents of the Association and the way they support all Sunshine Coast lawyers, but in particular early career lawyers. I’m excited to be able to continue to offer our wonderful free CPD for members whilst also continuing to strengthen the relationship we have with the local university, both through student involvement, and also our annual Justin Crosby Memorial bursary dinner. Last year, this dinner raised over $12,000 for the scholarship the SCLA donates to the University.  We also continue to raise funds for our local Community Legal Service through many different fundraisers and events.

What makes being a Sunshine Coast lawyer so unique?

The Sunshine Coast legal fraternity is so collegiate and always willing to help one another out.