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Meet our Expert Team

Directors

Laura Nightingale
DIRECTOR | PRINCIPAL LAWYER

Laura in gray plaid blazer leaning against brick wall, smiling.

LLB, BSSC(Crim), GradDipLP, AdvDipps(Pol.Inv),
Dip Pol.

Laura has over 20 years experience working in the criminal justice system as a former Detective Senior Sergeant in the NSW Police Force and now as a lawyer admitted to the Supreme Court of Queensland. Laura started Nightingale Law as she felt compelled to create a platform where she could advocate for her clients and make a tangible difference in their lives.

  • Laura is a strong legal advocate and is passionate about fighting for justice and protecting the rights of her clients. Laura has experience investigating serious criminal offences such as murder, rape, robberies, and assaults, providing her with extensive knowledge of police investigations and methodologies. This knowledge and her ability to scrutinise evidence and police charges is an asset to her clients.

    Laura is passionate about working with victims of domestic violence. Laura previously sat on the National Domestic Violence Panel as a Legal Consultant and has made it her mission to advocate for those who are most vulnerable. As a frontline police officer, Laura has witnessed the devastating effects domestic violence has on families and the community. Laura provides her clients with a dedicated and compassionate approach when litigating these matters and helping them to navigate the legal system.

  • Laura also represents clients in parenting matters, property settlements and divorce proceedings. Laura has successfully appeared in Interim Hearings in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia against experienced barristers. Laura is a collaborative and trauma informed advocate, who is dedicated to guiding her clients through difficult and emotional situations. She is very passionate about keeping client’s matters out of the court system, hence saving them from lengthy proceedings and the expense of unnecessary legal costs.

  • Laura has extensive experience, appearing in the Magistrates, Children’s, District, Supreme and Federal Circuit and Family Courts of Australia. Laura is dedicated to providing her clients with the highest level of legal representation in a variety of practice areas, while always keeping their best interests in mind. Whether you are facing a complex legal issue or simply needing guidance on a legal matter, Laura and her team are here to help.

Kim Turvey
Director | Lawyer

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LLB, GradDipLP, B.Pol.

Kim has extensive experience in the areas of crime, domestic violence and family law including child protection matters. Over a span of 25 years, Kim has been employed by the QLD Police Service, Department of Corrections NSW, NSW Police Force, and the Department of Child Safety. Kim spent 8 years as a NSW police officer and NSW police prosecutor.

  • Due to her training as a prosecutor, Kim has strong advocacy skills, is well versed in court procedures, and often appears before the Magistrates Court.  Kim wears many hats in the Nightingale Law team, including as the HR Manager and the operational business manager of the firm.  Kim currently works predominantly in the practice areas of Family and Domestic Violence and child protection matters, she has a very warm nature, and is always sensitive to the needs of our clients.

  • In 2022 Kim began working as a paralegal for Nightingale Law and has developed a passion for family law. Kim is a strong advocate for those who are vulnerable and has dedicated much of her time to assisting clients and their children who have experienced domestic violence. Kim has been admitted to the Victorian Supreme Court as a practising lawyer.

  • Kim spent her high school years living in Gympie where she attended James Nash State High School. Outside of work, Kim previously operated a successful equestrian business called Sydney Horse Express. After 4 years of early starts and sleepless nights, Kim and her family relocated to Gympie where she continues to enjoy her horses and the sport of eventing and dressage. Kim also loves to spend time with her family and friends, and you will often find her at various community events.

Lawyers

alri Maritz
LAWYER

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  • LLB, GradDipLP

    Alri is a dedicated solicitor specialising in family law, including domestic violence and child protection, and criminal law. Alri has a genuine passion to support and guide clients through what may be one of the most challenging times of their life and aims to reduce the turmoil that coincides with these matters. As a client, you can be confident that Alri will take a client-centred approach and provide unique solutions and strategies to resolve your legal issue.

  • Alri is committed to achieve a just outcome and will be in your corner every step of the way. Known for her empathetic, yet objective and transparent, communication style, you will be kept informed during all stages of your matter.

  • Alri commenced her legal career in early 2016 when she secured a paralegal position within a respected law firm whilst completing her Bachelor of Laws and Practical Legal Training. In 2019, Alri was admitted as a solicitor and continued her professional development in Gympie gaining a good rapport with the local community and the surrounding areas.

  • Outside the courtroom and office, Alri loves spending time with her family, fur babies and friends. She is always keen for an adventure or challenge as long as she has a cup of coffee within arm’s reach.

Christie Mahoney
Lawyer

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  • LLB, BAppSc, DipPubSafety(Pol), DipJusAdmin, GradCertPolPros. GradDipLP

    Christie is a lawyer admitted to the Supreme Court of Queensland who has spent most of her working career gaining deep insight and experience in policing and Court advocacy, having commenced first as a legal secretary with a Toowoomba law firm, before becoming a police officer and prosecutor, including Officer in Charge of Prosecutions. Christie is an experienced Court advocate who is adept at successfully managing summary trials and is passionate about using her skills to benefit her clients.

  • Christie understands police procedure, including non-Court resolutions than can be applied to some criminal offences.  Her meticulous attention to detail and previous experience managing police briefs of evidence for serious criminal offences means that Christie can objectively scrutinise evidence to achieve the best outcome for her clients.  Having worked with people from diverse communities throughout Queensland, Christie is a focused but approachable advocate who takes the time to listen and properly understand each client’s needs.

    Christie’s academic achievements highlight her knowledge base and work ethic: She has completed two undergraduate degrees with Distinction; was on the Dean’s List for her Bachelor of Applied Science at QUT; received the University Medal on completion of her Bachelor of Laws with USQ; and was Dux of both her Queensland Police Service recruit intake and Prosecutor’s Training Course.

  • Christie grew up on a cattle property in Western Queensland, where her family still live and work. Her family experiences, as well as her working experiences serving communities across regional and remote Queensland, have made her passionate about addressing the social inequities that exist for regional Queenslanders. Christie is dedicated to providing high quality and compassionate legal advice to her clients, that rivals services available in metropolitan areas. Christie makes it her mission to understand and be responsive to her clients’ needs.

  • Christie has over 18 years’ experience and has appeared regularly in Magistrates Courts across Queensland, including Toowoomba, Pittsworth, Gatton, Oakey, Chinchilla, Cairns, Innisfail, Tully, Yarrabah, Thursday Island, Bamaga, Gladstone, Gympie and Murgon. She has extensive Court advocacy experience and excels at developing and implementing legal strategies to achieve the best result in each case.  Christie is a skilled trial lawyer, and her firsthand knowledge of police procedure means that she can critically analyse cases and comprehend the prosecution perspective.  Christie is direct, honest and works hard to ensure that clients are fully engaged and understand how their matter is progressing.  Christie’s broad experience in domestic violence law and related issues makes her a clear choice for clients who need assistance in these areas.  She takes a holistic approach when dealing with domestic and family issues, including when representing these clients in the Family practice area.

Lachlan Evans
Lawyer

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  • LLB, GradDipLP

    Prior to becoming a lawyer, Lachlan had a successful and diverse career as a business owner, operating hospitality businesses in the specialty coffee and café industry in Melbourne. Lachlan has also been an owner and operator of an e-commerce businesses, including retail and large wholesale enterprises.

  • Due to his experience in the business and commercial sector, Lachlan brings a wealth of knowledge to the firm regarding asset protection and commercial transactions. Lachlan has a deep understating of business structures, intellectual property law, business purchases and sales, contracts, and supply agreements, as well as all areas of property law and civil litigation.

  • Lachlan is based in Brisbane and provides flexible and comprehensive legal advice to clients between Brisbane and Gympie inclusive. Lachlan currently works predominantly in the areas of crime and family law and is looking forward to expanding his practice areas in the near future. Lachlan has a refined ability to advocate for his client’s ensuring they receive the best possible outcome in their legal challenges. Lachlan has exceptional legal knowledge and analytical skills that enable him to navigate complex legal issues effectively. His clients appreciate his dedication, clear communication, and strategic approach where he consistently goes above and beyond when looking after their interests.

  • Outside of legal practice, Lachlan enjoys spending time with his young family, exploring the Sunshine Coast beaches. You will often find Lachlan enjoying his down time with family and friends in and around the trendy Brisbane restaurants where he enjoys supporting local businesses.

Travis Terracall
LAWYER

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  • LLB, GradDipLP, BComm, Dip Bus, Dip LeadMgt

    Travis possesses a diverse and extensive background spanning Business,

    Commerce, Leadership and Management. He began his career as a tradesperson in

    the flooring industry and later transitioned into law, becoming a qualified Lawyer.

    With a solid foundation in business and financial management, supported by an

    accounting degree, Travis has developed a keen eye for detail and a strategic

    mindset, enabling him to effectively navigate complex legal matters.

  • Specialising in Family Law and Domestic Violence, Travis is passionate about

    advocating for individuals during some of the most challenging and sensitive periods

    of their lives. His extensive experience in complex and highly litigious family law

    matters has refined his ability to navigate intricate legal situations, ensuring that

    clients receive not only strong legal representation but also compassionate support.

  • Travis has accumulated over four years of experience in the legal profession, starting

    as legal secretary, progressing to a senior paralegal, and ultimately becoming a

    Lawyer. Throughout his career, he has developed a solid foundation in legal practice,

    demonstrating a commitment to professional growth and expertise. His unique blend

    of practical experience and academic expertise positions him as a valuable asset to

    our Firm, in both legal and business contexts.

  • Outside of his legal career, Travis values maintaining balance and health. He begins

    most days with an early-morning beach swim (even in winter), followed by a gym session. He is also a connoisseur of boutique, often over-priced, coffee.

Katie Paterson
Lawyer

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  • LLB, GradDipLP

    Katie is a highly respected criminal defence solicitor based in Maroochydore, with extensive experience representing clients across a broad spectrum of criminal cases. With a deep commitment to justice, Katie provides strong, strategic legal representation for individuals facing charges ranging from minor offences to the most serious criminal charges.

    Having worked on numerous cases in both Magistrates and District Courts, as well as instructing in the Supreme Court, Katie understands the complexities of the Queensland legal system and is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for each client. Known for her clear communication and meticulous attention to detail, Katie ensures that clients fully understand their rights and options every step of the way.

  • Katie has worked primarily in criminal law since commencing her legal career in 2019. She strongly believes everyone deserves a fair go in the justice system and goes above and beyond to achieve the best outcome for her clients. In addition to her own files, Katie is also an accredited Duty Lawyer, regularly appearing before the Maroochydore, Noosa, Nambour and Caloundra Magistrates Court.

    Alongside criminal justice, Katie is passionate about mental health care and child protection matters and is an accredited practitioner before the Mental Health Review Tribunal.

  • Katie is committed to providing vigorous defence and supporting clients through their challenging

    times with strong advocacy and negotiating skills.

  • Life outside the courtroom for Katie is all about keeping things balanced, healthy, and full of laughter. Whether she’s at the gym weight training, visiting the family farm, exploring new locations at the Coast or being the fun aunt, she’s always out embracing new challenges and finding joy in the little moments.

Paralegals & Admin

Leanne Bateman
Paralegal

A person in a black suit standing against a brick wall.

  • AssocDegLaw, BLeg&JusS, BCrim&Jus

    Leanne is what she calls a serial university student with having gained her Associate Degree in Law (Paralegal Studies), Bachelor of Legal and Justice Studies, and currently studying for her Bachelor of Criminology and Justice at the University of the Sunshine Coast. It is obvious through her degrees and many years of working in the legal industry that she has a passion for Law. Leanne is a great listener and prides herself on providing clients with a level of care and empathy to help clients feel at ease and have confidence in our work.

  • Leanne has a vast array of knowledge and experience within the family law area with over 18 years of experience in working in the legal industry. Leanne aims to provide clients with a high level of compassion to help clients through one of the toughest times of their lives. Leanne dedicates herself to assisting in providing clients with the best outcome possible.

  • Leanne moved to the Sunshine Coast area 17 years ago from NSW and is thoroughly loving the lifestyle in the Gympie region. Leanne enjoys spending time with her furbaby who is a moodle and her daughter at the beach and op shopping. Leanne is a Game of Thrones & House of the Dragon nut and would love to visit Croatia to see the castles where GoT was filmed.

emma Walker
practice Manager

Person smiling in front of a brick wall, wearing a black suit jacket and white blouse.

  • B.Ed, Dip Prac Mgt.

    Emma studied Bachelor of Education with the University of the Sunshine Coast, however her passion for working within the medical and legal field lead her to complete her studies for Diploma of Practice Management. Her drive and dedication to fulfil her studies ultimately resulted in her winning the Excellence Award in 2014.

  • Emma has a wealth of knowledge and experience as a Practice Manager, where in her previous role she managed a medical allied health specialist centre in Gympie for over 10 years.  Emma as the Office Manager is a valued member of the Nightingale Law firm where she brings her extensive experience and in-depth knowledge both professionally and personally. Emma’s honesty, compassion, integrity, and empathy for others makes her the perfect addition to our ever-growing firm.

  • Emma was raised on a cattle property in the Mary Valley and is a proud local of the Gympie community where she completed her school studies at St Patrick’s College Gympie. Emma has been involved in many local charities and events including but not limited to, being the first competitor in the Gympie Music Muster Talent Search Competition 2004 to sing on Main Stage, crowned Miss Junior Showgirl 2003 and later, Miss Charity 2005. Outside the office, Emma enjoys spending time with her family, tending to her horses, singing, playing her multiple musical instruments, painting, hiking, attending local Basketball games and cooking for her loved ones.

amy elliott
Paralegal

Person with short curly hair wearing a dark green shirt and black pants standing against a brick wall, smiling with hands in pockets.

  • Amy joined our firm as a Law Clerk in November 2024. With more than 15 years of experience in Queensland Courts, primarily within the Magistrates Court, Amy offers a wealth of knowledge and expertise in Court Registry services and courtroom operations. Her extensive background enhances the capability of our Nightingale Law team. Additionally, Amy now serves as a Paralegal, further contributing to the efficiency and effectiveness of our practice.

  • With a thorough understanding of Court operations and service delivery, Amy is deeply committed to assisting individuals in navigating the complexities of the Court system. Currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Laws at the University of Southern Queensland, Amy commences her studies in February 2025, with a particular focus on person-centred law. Her dedication to both the legal field and client support underscores her strong passion for helping others.

  • Amy relocated to Gympie from Central Queensland eight years ago, where she enjoys spending quality time with her family. Outside of work, she is an avid reader of fantasy novels, a passionate collector of crystals, and enjoys baking sweet treats and exploring the beautiful Sunshine Coast.

Let us aid you in your legal battle.

expert experience

Our team have a wealth of collective experience in different areas of law. This diversity of skills and knowledge allows us to approach legal issues with multidimensional perspectives that generate innovative solutions for our clients.

Dedicated Team

At Nightingale Law, we are dedicated to helping our clients navigate the legal system with clarity and ease. Our team of experienced lawyers strives to provide unparalleled support and guidance to ensure that our clients' goals are met.

cost transparency

We pride ourselves on providing comprehensive, value-added legal services that meet the highest standards of excellence. Having strong communication skills and promoting transparency in legal costs is essential for building trust and maintaining positive relationships with our clients.