Presenters

Alexandra Metherell, Barrister, Foley’s List
Alex is passionate about guiding families through complex legal challenges with empathy and clarity. Alex prides herself on building strong relationships with stakeholders to achieve practical and positive outcomes, and adopts a detailed approach to trial practice. Alex specializes exclusively in family law and related jurisdictions, accepting briefs to appear at local and interstate registries. She undertakes regional and circuit work, mediations, and drafting tasks. With significant experience in high-risk parenting matters involving allegations of unacceptable risk, as well as complex property disputes related to spousal maintenance, third-party interests, equitable interests, child support, and injunctions, Alex has a firm understanding of the intricacies of family law. Recognized by Doyle's Guide to the Australian Legal Profession since 2022, she has been listed in the categories of Leading Family Law Junior Counsel (Recommended) and Leading Parenting & Children's Matters Barristers (Recommended). Alex read with John Williams. Her senior mentor is Andrew Kirkham AM RFD KC.

Melanie Rubin, Director, Principal Lawyer, Rubin Blight hardy Family Lawyers & Mediators
Melanie Rubin is a Director of Rubin Blight Hardy Family Lawyers & Mediators and is a highly respected and experienced family lawyer. Melanie is known for her strategic approach, attention to detail, and deep understanding of the complexities of family dynamics. She has acted in a wide range of matters including high-net-worth property settlements, varied and complex parenting matters, financial agreements, child support and family violence matters. With a strong commitment to dispute resolution including mediation and collaborative practice she works with clients to achieve outcomes outside of Court. At the same time, she brings a methodical approach to litigation where necessary. Melanie is well regarded for her complex family law work, her child focussed, sensitive and pragmatic approach and is committed to promoting client focussed and commercially sensible outcomes in family law. Melanie is a trained collaborative lawyer, mediator, Accredited Specialist in Family Law and recognised as a Preeminent Parenting and Children’s Matters Lawyer and a Recommended Leading Family & Divorce Lawyer in Sydney in Doyles Guide and is recognised by Best Lawyers for Family Law in Australia.