Candace Watkins is our Family Solicitor in Brisbane and holds a Bachelor of Laws from Queensland University of Technology

I have been working in family law for a number of years in which time I have gained extensive experience and assisted many families in the tough time that follows the breakdown of a relationship.

I’m first to admit that family law wasn’t originally the plan for my law career however after securing employment at a family law firm in my earlier years of university, I quickly gained a passion and love for family law. My passion for family law stems from the being able to assist clients in what can be the most difficult time of their life and helping them reach a resolution in order for them to start the next chapter of their lives.

I endeavour to guide and assist clients through the difficult separation process in the most cost effective and time effective way possible.

Throughout the years I have remained of the belief that the breakdown of a relationship doesn’t have to be a negative end and it can be a positive new direction. This belief coincides with why Parry Coates Family Law was founded, that being a ‘Different Direction, New Beginning’.

I strive to ensure that clients receive the attention, care and support they need while experiencing the challenging personal circumstances after separation. I aim to take an adaptive approach and place emphasis on building a good rapport, listening and ensuring that clients are involved and kept up to date in the process at all times.

I take pride in client’s leaving an initial consultation or telephone call feeling that they are armed with information, have a clear direction moving forward and are not ‘alone’ in the sometimes difficult process of setting both property matters and parenting matters with a former spouse.

A little bit about me…

I am a country girl (well sort of) having been born and raised in Rockhampton, Central Queensland. I have travelled extensively and lived in both Wales and Scotland. The travelling bug has not yet left me and I can often be found browsing flights currently on sale looking for my next trip.

I have an interest in health and fitness having previously competed in various fitness competitions but enjoy the good things in life such as coffee, wine, cheese and baking. I enjoy baking so much so that as a hobby I specialise in occasion cakes and cupcakes (see @cakes.by.candace for my latest treats!).

Along with the above I can often be found at ParkRun or out walking my dog with my partner at Nudgee Beach or Kedron Brook on a nice weekend afternoon.

I graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from Queensland University of Technology, completed Practical Legal Training also through Queensland University of Technology and am admitted as a solicitor to the Supreme Court of Queensland and High Court of Australia.

I have a strong belief that we should use our skills to assist those who may not otherwise be able to access them and for this reason, I volunteer my time at the Women’s Legal Service.

Memberships

• Family Law Practitioners Association
• Queensland Law Society
• Queensland Young Lawyers – Committee Member
• Business Networking International (BNI)

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Laws
• Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice

Speciality Areas

• Property settlement
• Parenting & Family Dispute Resolutions
• Spousal Maintenance
• Divorce
• Child Support
• Domestic Violence
• Surrogacy
• Wills and Estates