Meet Our Team of Lawyers
Brett Wilkin – Consultant
Brett is a highly experienced family lawyer with over 12 years’ experience predominately in private practice. Having been born and raised in the Riverina area of NSW and later the Far North Coast of NSW and growing up on the family farm, Brett has both practical experience and understanding of the issues affecting rural communities. This means that Brett applies a practical and non-nonsense approach to identifying and advising clients in respect to their legal issues and is focused on achieving the best outcome for them.
Brett has extensive experience in all aspects of family law, and has a particular interest in the intersection of family law and succession planning.
In 2017 Brett completed his accreditation as an Independent Children’s Lawyer and has, and continues to, appear on behalf of children in the Family Law jurisdiction. It is always Brett’s preference to resolve matters without the need for Court proceedings, however if required Brett has appeared as an advocate in all levels of the state and federal court systems.
Brett and his wife, Kylie, and their three children have made the tree change to the Great Southern Region in early 2023 and are excited to be a part of the local community.
Brett was admitted to practice in February 2012 in both the Supreme Court of NSW and the High Court of Australia.
Jaime Lee Richardson – Consultant
Jaime Lee holds degrees in both Psychology and Law, together with a diploma in social service work.
She practices in all areas of Family Law and has experience with complex property settlement matters, including those involving high net worth parties and international aspects. She also enjoys both simple and complex parenting matters.
In her practice, Jaime Lee is able to rely on her knowledge of family violence, addiction and mental health issues to help tailor clients’ service to their individual needs.
She prides herself on being organised and efficient, completing work to a high standard to ensure her clients receive the best service. Whilst she has experience representing clients in the Family Court, including instructing Counsel at trial, she strives to assist clients to resolve matters without the need to go this expense, if possible.
In addition to being a Family Law practitioner, Jaime Lee has extensive experience in the not-for-profit sector, working with young offenders and victims of domestic violence.
Jaime Lee is an Independent Children’s Lawyer. She represents children in both the Family Court and Children’s Court.
Jaime Lee is a member of the Board of Directors for SCALES Community Legal Centre. She is also an active member of the community, frequently engaging in volunteer work.
Sabrina Tan – Senior Associate
Sabrina graduated with a Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Arts (Asian Studies) degree and a Postgraduate Certificate in Chinese Law from Murdoch University in mid 2012.
After graduation, she commenced her legal career with one of Perth’s prominent criminal lawyers for 3 years. In addition to her experience in criminal advocacy, she also undertook the conduct of the firm’s family law matters and subsequently became the “in-house family lawyer”. During this time, Sabrina assisted counsel and Senior Counsel in a wide range of parenting and property disputes.
Sabrina was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of WA in July 2014. She has been practicing exclusively in all aspects of family law as a divorce lawyer since 2016, and worked at a first-tier family law firm in Western Australia for nearly 5 years. She has developed a strong interest in both simple and complex property settlements.
Sabrina adopts a considered and practical approach to client matters and strives to provide quality services.
Kate Withers - Senior Associate
Kate was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of Western Australia in 2018, after completing a Bachelor of Laws at Murdoch University and a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice at the College of Law. In 2025, she completed a Master of Applied Law (Family Law) with High Distinction and was awarded the Best Student Award for her cohort.
Since her admission, Kate has practised exclusively in family law, with a particular focus on parenting and property matters, as well as Family Violence Restraining Orders. She has developed significant experience in managing complex and sensitive cases, and is valued for her strategic approach and sound judgment.
Kate is dedicated to helping clients navigate the challenges of separation with clarity and confidence. She prioritises negotiation and mediation wherever appropriate, aiming to resolve disputes efficiently and respectfully. When litigation is required, she is a capable advocate in the Family Court of Western Australia.
Known for her calm and compassionate approach, Kate provides clear, practical advice and is committed to achieving outcomes that support her clients’ wellbeing and long-term interests.
Alistair Graham – Senior Associate
Admitted to the Supreme Court of WA in 2016, Alistair practices in all areas of family law. He has a high level of experience and knowledge in complex financial matters, including intricate business and trust structures and high net-worth individuals.
Alistair is also experienced in parenting matters including domestic violence matters, recovery orders, flight watch list orders, and relocation matters.
Alistair has represented and guided clients through all stages of their matters, such as consent orders, mediation, negotiation and litigation.
In addition to his extensive family law experience, Alistair is also experienced in preparing wills, probate applications and letters of administration.
In acknowledgement of his expertise, Alistair was recognised as a Family Law Rising Star in the 2024 Doyles Guide.
Jessica Hewlett – Associate
Jessica is a graduate of Murdoch University, where she completed a Bachelor of Criminology (Majoring in Global Politics and Public Policy) in 2017 and a Bachelor of Laws in 2021. Upon graduation, Jessica commenced work as a Legal Case Manager in the Federal Court of Australia.
Jessica completed her Practical Legal Training under the supervision of a National Judicial Registrar and was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of Western Australia and the High Court of Australia in November 2021.
Throughout her studies and thereafter, Jessica has worked predominantly in Family Law.
Jessica is experienced in representing clients in all areas of Family Law and enjoys assisting clients with both financial and parenting matters. She takes a practical line to providing legal advice and she is very approachable and empathic to the needs of clients and their individual circumstances.
Elisha Rayner – Associate
Elisha is a graduate of both the University of Western Australia and Murdoch University, having completed a Bachelor of Arts (Communications) in 2015 and a Graduate Bachelor of Laws in 2018. Upon graduating, she commenced as a Magistrate’s Judicial Legal Research Associate in the Family Court of Western Australia.
Elisha completed a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice and was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of Western Australia in July 2020.
She is experienced in negotiation and gives due consideration to all forms of alternative dispute resolution. She is passionate about advocacy when litigation becomes necessary. Elisha has worked predominantly in family and divorce law, but has experience in both criminal and international law.
Elisha works within all areas of family law, but has developed a particular interest in restraining orders, children’s matters, Hague Convention proceedings (international recover orders), surrogacy and complex financial matters.
In her spare time she loves travel, the arts and continuing to learn and train in Australian Sign Language (Auslan).
David Voisey – Associate
David is a graduate of Curtin University having completed a Bachelor of Laws in November 2019. He completed his Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice in July 2021 and was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of Western Australia in October 2021. David has also completed his Master of Applied Law (Family Law) with the College of Law in February 2023.
David has primarily worked in the Perth family law sector since completing his tertiary studies, commencing employment at a boutique law firm where he gained significant experience in all areas of family law, including simple and complex Property Settlements, Parenting Arrangements, De Facto Relationships, Divorce and Restraining Orders, both through negotiation and representing clients in the Family Court of Western Australia, if required. David provides a practical approach to resolving all matters and has a strong interest in reaching an early and amicable settlement. He is a pragmatic practitioner, while also friendly and empathetic.
David is a passionate Royal Australian Navy Veteran, with a strong working knowledge of veterans’ entitlements and DVA. He understands the often complex and stressful navigation of everyday Australian Defence Force life, as both a serving member and the spouse of a serving member. He is also an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Outside of work, David is a volunteer Lifesaver with Surf Life Saving WA, and coaches Woodside Nippers throughout the warmer months. He loves spending time with his family, travelling both domestically and internationally, and is always learning to ensure the best experience for each client and their individual circumstances.
Rahila Haidari – Associate
Rahila graduated from Murdoch University with a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts. During the course of her studies, she undertook internships at community legal centres both in Perth and internationally, gaining early exposure to a broad range of legal matters and a strong commitment to access to justice.
Following admission to practice in the Supreme Court of Western Australia, Rahila has practised exclusively in the area of family law. She has experience advising on complex parenting and property matters, and regularly works with counsel in the preparation and conduct of litigated proceedings.
Rahila is dedicated to providing clients with clear, strategic, and considered legal advice, with a focus on resolving disputes effectively and with professionalism.
Cléa Turner – Solicitor
Cléa joined the team in September of 2024.
Admitted to the Supreme Court of WA in 2017 and the High Court of Australia in 2016, Cléa has previously worked in mid-sized specialist law firms in both Perth and the Southwest, where she also spent time working in the community legal sector.
Cléa has always been passionate about practicing family law and prides herself on being compassionate, pragmatic and results driven in her practice. Cléa’s overall aim is to assist her clients in moving on with their lives.
Going to Court is not always the answer and Cléa believes in educating and guiding her clients through the family law process, enabling them to make informed decisions.
Sophie Walker - Solicitor
In August 2024, Sophie completed her Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice, and was subsequently admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of Western Australia in October 2024.
Sophie is passionate about helping clients navigate the Family Law system with empathy and has a focus on cost-effective solutions.
With a thorough understanding of the family law system and commitment to client welfare, Sophie is here to guide you through challenging times and ensure your interests are protected.
Abby Eastep - Law Graduate
Abigail holds an LLB in International Law from the UK and an MSc in Business Law and Management. She has recently completed her Masters of Legal Practice at the University of Western Australia and is set to begin her Practical Legal Training in July, with plans to be admitted to practice in December 2025.
Abigail began work as a paralegal in 2021 in the UK before moving to Western Australia in 2023. Since entering the legal profession, Abigail has gained extensive experience across all areas of family law. She has experience in simple and complex Property Settlements, Parenting Arrangements, De Facto Relationships, Divorce and Restraining Orders. With this experience, she is equipped to navigate the most challenging and sensitive issues. Abigail is dedicated to guiding clients through emotionally challenging situations with both care and clarity, ensuring they feel supported at every step.
Outside of work, Abigail enjoys running and spending time with her friends and family.
Helen Davis - Practice Manager
Hailing from a business development background in the IT industry, Helen has been installing legal practice management software and supporting small law firms in Australia since 2008. She holds a Diploma in Legal Services (Australia) and, whilst she has experience in all areas of law, family law interests her the most.
Helen has been fortunate to have worked across numerous countries with a diverse range of cultures and business practices. She loves meeting people from different backgrounds.
Louise Lockwood - Executive Assistant
Louise has worked as a Legal Assistant for 10 years, predominantly in family law. She has a particular interest in supporting clients through difficult times.
She studied psychology at the University of South Africa and has worked in a variety of industries over her career.
Outside of work Louise enjoys a holistic lifestyle, candle making, meditation and spending time in her garden.
Claudia Hall - Legal Assistant
Claudia began her legal assistant career over 15 years ago and is experienced in Family, Criminal and Government law. Claudia has found her interest to be Family Law, as it is the most rewarding.
Claudia enjoys meeting new people and listening to their stories. In her spare time, she enjoys her family and the occasional art project.
Sarah Forde- Legal Assistant
With over six years’ experience in family law, across various roles, Sarah is client focused and supportive during difficult times. She has a particular interest in child related matters.
Sarah enjoys motorbiking, getting outdoors and spending time with family and friends.
Taylor Dunstan - Paralegal
Taylor commenced working at Hickman Family Lawyers in August 2019 and has almost five years’ experience in Family Law. She enjoys both financial and parenting matters and loves to see the best possible outcome for families.
Taylors is currently undertaking paralegal studies and she looks forward to further progressing her career in family law.
Outside of work, Taylor is a yoga teacher and aerial acrobatics instructor, and enjoys spending time outdoors with friends and family.
Nikki Jones - Paralegal
Nikki has taken a unique path to law, holding a Bachelor of Nursing from Charles Darwin University (2017) and a Master of Teaching from Curtin University (2021). Her background in healthcare and education has provided her with a broad skill set and a practical understanding of people and systems.
In 2023, she began working in the legal field, focusing on Personal Injury and Family Law. Her previous experience supports her work in preparing court documents, particularly in matters involving parenting and financial arrangements.
Nikki is scheduled to commence her Practical Legal Training in November 2025 and is on track to become a law graduate and Junior Solicitor in early 2026.
So, about that free 15 minute phone consultation...
Why choose Hickman Family Lawyers?
Because we treat you like a person and not just a number.
Because we practise exclusively in family and divorce law. We know our stuff.
Because we’re a small, boutique practice of separation and divorce lawyers focused on providing you with a quality service.
