Sam Cohen, Principal at Cohen Legal, brings an impressive blend of legal expertise and practical business insight to her practice. With a rich background in the building and construction, mining, and civil engineering sectors, Sam is uniquely positioned to understand and address the complexities faced by businesses of all sizes. Her career trajectory saw her swiftly rise to Partner at a prominent regional firm after accruing substantial industry experience. This foundation enhances her ability to pinpoint legal issues and devise effective solutions, making her a formidable presence in legal disputes. Sam's practice is centred on commercial litigation, particularly in contractual disputes, debt recovery, building and construction, and insolvency matters. She is adept at navigating the nuances of the Building Industry Fairness (Security of Payments) Act and has proven success in high-stakes litigation, including matters escalated to the High Court. Her approach is commercial and pragmatic, always prioritising timely and beneficial outcomes for clients. In addition to her legal work, Sam is actively involved in the legal community. She chairs the Queensland Law Society Construction and Infrastructure Committee and serves on various committees aimed at enhancing the practice of law. Her dedication to the profession extends to her role as a sessional lecturer at James Cook University, where she shares her knowledge with aspiring lawyers. Previously, Sam has also contributed as President of both the North Queensland Law Association and the Townsville District Law Association, underscoring her commitment to the growth and governance of legal practice in the region. Sam Cohen's extensive experience and dedication to client service make her a trusted adviser and advocate in the legal field, particularly for those navigating the intricate landscape of the construction and infrastructure sectors.
Chair Construction & Infrastructure Committee
Queensland Law Society
Mar 2021 - Present • 5 years 8 months
Deputy Chair Construction and Infrastructure Committee
Law Council of Australia
Dec 2020 - Present • 5 years 11 months
Sessional Lecturer
James Cook University
Jul 2020 - Present • 6 years 4 months
Member of the governance committee
selectability
Feb 2019 - Jul 2023 • 4 years 5 months
Principal
Cohen Legal
May 2016 - Present • 10 years 6 months
Partner
BCK Lawyers
Aug 2014 - May 2016 • 1 year 9 months
Senior Associate
BCK Lawyers
Jul 2013 - Jul 2014 • 1 year
Associate
BCK Lawyers
Jun 2012 - Jun 2013 • 1 year
Lawyer
BCK Lawyers
Jun 2009 - May 2012 • 2 years 11 months
Graduate
BCK Lawyers
May 2008 - May 2009 • 1 year
Personal Assistant
Ruddy Tomlins and Baxter
Jun 2007 - May 2008 • 11 months
Legal Researcher
James Cook University
Jan 2006 - Jan 2007 • 1 year
Court Officer
Federal Magistrates Court
Jan 2006 - Jan 2007 • 1 year
Branch Administrator
Chubb Fire & Security
Jan 1997 - Jan 2004 • 7 years
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice
College of Law
2008 - 2009
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)
James Cook University
2004 - 2008
Last checked: 13 May 2026 • Checked with Queensland Law Society
