

Bernadine Swaffield is a distinguished Senior Associate with extensive experience across South African and Australian legal landscapes. She was admitted to practice in New South Wales in 2019 after establishing a successful career in South Africa, where she was Principal of her own law firm for eight years. Now at the helm of LightHill Law, Bernadine continues to collaborate with Rockdene Lawyers, providing her expertise in Wills and Estates, Commercial Law, and Property Law. Her role as a legal advisor has been enriched by an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business, allowing her to deliver solutions that integrate legal precision with commercial insight. Bernadine's career journey includes her role as Associate at HWL Ebsworth Lawyers and her tenure as a Senior Associate at Rockdene Lawyers. Her leadership at Swaffield & Associates in South Africa, coupled with previous roles at De Bruyn & Associates and Stegmanns Inc, reflects her comprehensive approach to legal practice. As a member of the NSW Law Society, Bernadine is committed to building long-lasting client relationships, characterised by her passion for people. Beyond her legal prowess, she enjoys baking, a passion that has brought joy to many around her. Bernadine holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Pretoria, an LLB conversion from the University of New England, and a Master of Business Administration. Her academic background, combined with her practical experience, positions her as a trusted advisor and advocate in her field.
Principal Director
Light Hill Law Pty Ltd
Feb 2023 - Present • 3 years 9 months

Associate
HWL Ebsworth Lawyers
Aug 2022 - Jan 2023 • 5 months
Senior Associate
Rockdene Lawyers
May 2020 - Aug 2022 • 2 years 3 months
Partner
Swaffield & Associates
Feb 2013 - Mar 2020 • 7 years 1 month
Manager - Legal Advisory Services
De Bruyn & Associates (CA) SA
Nov 2011 - Jan 2013 • 1 year 2 months
Professional Assistant/Attorney
Stegmanns Inc
Feb 2011 - Sep 2011 • 7 months
Candidate Attorney
Jan 2010 - Feb 2011 • 1 year 1 month

Bachelor of Laws - LLB conversion
University of New England (AU)
2018 - 2018

Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Australian Institute of Business
2016 - 2017
LLB
University of Pretoria/Universiteit van Pretoria
2006 - 2009
Boksburg High
2002 - 2005
Last checked: 22 Jun 2026 • Checked with Law Society of NSW