Bernadette Johnston

Bernadette Johnston serves as the Managing Director and is a well-respected family lawyer with a practical and straightforward approach. A graduate of the University of Melbourne in 1989, she brings over three decades of experience in family law, balancing her professional career with caring for children. Bernadette has been an active contributor to the legal community, participating in the Executive, Court's Practice, and Education sub-committees of the Law Institute of Victoria Family Law Section. She has also lectured at the Law Institute and the Leo Cussen Institute of Continuing Legal Education, emphasising the importance of combining technical expertise with sensitivity in solving family law issues. Her negotiation skills have earned her the respect of her peers, and she is adept at navigating the complexities of family and business matters. Through a forensic approach, she listens to her clients' concerns and priorities, striving to achieve the best possible outcomes. Bernadette's commitment to personalised and efficient legal services was evident during her tenure as Special Counsel at Berry Family Law after merging her own firm with them. She led a skilled team providing bespoke legal advice. Bernadette founded Johnston Family Law, a boutique firm, where she solidified her reputation for delivering personal service and ensuring clients remain informed and empowered throughout their cases. Her career also includes a significant partnership at various law firms in Melbourne, where she focused on matrimonial and de facto property law, divorce, and child custody matters. She is well-known for her contributions to mentoring young lawyers and her accreditation as a specialist in Family Court negotiation and litigation. Her early career began at Rogers and Gaylard as an Associate Lawyer, and her academic background includes a Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Arts, and a Diploma in Education from the University of Melbourne. Bernadette's comprehensive legal knowledge is further complemented by her studies in English Literature, Economic History, and Philosophy, alongside her foundational education at Genazzano College in Kew.