The Law People

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Jill Johnstone – Family Lawyer Who Balances Strength With Empathy

Founder, CEO and Accredited Family Law Specialist

Jill Johnstone is the Founder and CEO of The Law People, and an Accredited Family Law Specialist with over a decade of practical experience. Her accreditation is a mark of her exceptional expertise, particularly in complex financial settlements and parenting matters involving children of separated couples.

Jill’s clients describe her as approachable, compassionate, and genuinely invested in their wellbeing. She combines technical excellence with authentic care, ensuring clients feel heard, supported, and empowered through some of life’s most challenging transitions.

Why Jill Chose Family Law

Jill chose family law because of its profound impact on people’s lives. She is passionate about helping individuals and families find clarity, security, and resolution during times of significant upheaval.

Her professional journey began in insolvency accounting, where she gained a strong foundation in financial matters. That experience, combined with her drive to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, led her to specialise in family law — a field where she could use both her analytical skills and her empathy to support clients.

What It’s Like To Work With Jill

Working with Jill means working with someone who blends capability with compassion. She is known for her ability to simplify complex issues, provide practical and strategic advice, and empower clients to make informed decisions.

Clients appreciate Jill’s approachable nature, her genuine concern for their wellbeing, and her commitment to achieving early, effective resolutions wherever possible. Litigation is always her last resort, but when necessary, Jill is a confident and highly effective advocate.

A Memorable Moment In Jill’s Career

A highlight of Jill’s career has been contributing to international discussions on the rights and welfare of women and children. This global perspective enriches her legal practice, giving her deeper insight into the human dynamics behind family law.

Another defining moment has been achieving her accreditation as a Family Law Specialist — formal recognition of her skill and knowledge, particularly in complex parenting and financial matters.

Away From Work

Outside her professional role, Jill is a devoted parent raising her children in a blended family. Her personal journey gives her a unique understanding of the emotional and practical realities many clients face, adding a deeply relatable perspective to her legal work.

She also values time with her family and community and is passionate about supporting causes that promote the wellbeing of women and children.

Book A Consult With Jill

If you are navigating separation, parenting arrangements, or complex property settlements, Jill can provide the clarity, strategy, and support you need. Her blend of expertise, empathy, and real-world understanding ensures that every matter is handled with both sensitivity and precision.

Booking a consultation with Jill is the first step toward moving forward with security, confidence, and peace of mind.

Professional Experience

  • Insolvency accountant from 2004 to 2009 

  • Internship with National Commissioner for Women and Children (Bhutan, 2014) 

  • Admitted to practice as a lawyer in 2015 

  • Member of the Family Law Practitioners Association of Queensland 

  • Member of the Family Law Section of the Law Council of Australia 

Areas of Speciality

  • Property and financial matters, including property settlements and spousal maintenance particularly for high net worth matters where there are complex financial structures and third party interests 

  • High conflict parenting matters, including the negotiation of parenting arrangements after separation and addressing specific parenting issues including allegations of serious drug/alcohol misuse, child sexual abuse and alienation  

  • Drafting and advising on Financial Agreements 

  • De facto relationship property/financial disputes 

Professional Memberships

  • Family Law Practitioners Association

  • Law Council of Australia (Family Law Section)

  • Golden Key International Honour Society

Education

  • Accredited Specialist

  • Grad Dip Applied Law (Family Law)

  • Bachelor of Laws (Hons)

  • Grad Dip in Legal Practice

  • Bachelor of Business (Accountancy)