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James Bailey

James Bailey

Partner

I am passionate and enthusiastic about being a Family Lawyer. What makes my work interesting and rewarding is:

  • listening to clients explaining an often emotionally overwhelming and complex problem that they cannot resolve by themselves. The more complex the case the more interesting it is!
  • helping clients unravel the complexity of their situation and explaining the application of the law in their case. Explanations are important to me so clients really understand why the law will result in a particular outcome in their case.
  • developing and then implementing an individualised strategy about how to resolve their problem. Strategies vary and can include:-
    • filing court proceedings;
    • negotiating an outcome through correspondence, and mediation;
    • providing skills to allow clients to negotiate their own settlements.
  • getting to the end of a case and a person’s problem has been resolved and there is some finality.

While the variety in my work is part of what makes it interesting, over the last 20 years I have developed a particular interest in complex property settlements particularly those with businesses, farming and grazing businesses or complex corporate structures.

Away from work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and three kids, cooking for a crowd and getting outside gardening and landscaping.

Family Law
Contact Details

07 4963 2000

FamilyLaw@wallaw.com.au

Mackay Office

LinkedIn Profile

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Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Laws
  • Bachelor of Arts
Memberships & Associations
  • Queensland Law Society Family Law Specialist Accreditation Advisory Committee member (2015 to date)
  • St Francis Xavier Mackay School Board member (2019 to date)
  • Volunteer at Mackay Community Legal Centre (2003 to date)
  • Family Law Practitioners Association of Queensland Board member
  • Law Council Australia – Family Law Section member
  • Mackay District Law Association member
  • North Queensland Law Association member
  • Chair of the Mackay Children's Contact Service since 2022 (board member since 2020)
  • Chair of the Family Law Pathways Network for Mackay (2022 to date)
  • Past President of Mackay Community Visitors Association (2007-2009)
  • Past President of Mackay Junior Chamber International (2005)
Admissions
  • Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland – admitted 2005
  • Solicitor of the High Court of Australia – admitted 2005

What our clients have to say

  • Amanda

    “Was good to be heard and advised by James and Ruth was great while James was away. Gemma is an asset to your front desk. Also Peta who did my Will explained documents well.”

  • Damian

    "I was dealt with by James who acted with integrity, respect and true professionalism.  I am satisfied with his experience and knowledge which helped in the process."

  • David K.

    "James and the team made a very stressful and complicated issue so much easier to deal with, I can now put it all behind me and move on with life.  I have already referred and will continue to refer clients and friends."

  • Gregory

    "I can't thank you enough for your help, James was amazing and Cassandra was great, all the staff, Wendy, Ruth and girls on the front desk.  I can't thank you enough for all we were able to achieve and am grateful to have my boys the time I h... Read More

  • Maria

    "Was very happy with the service they gave me, especially when things got a little tough for me and upsetting.  James and the staff were very compassionate, considerate and understanding, they helped me through the upsetting times.  I fe... Read More

  • Nicole B.

    "James, thanks for everything you were worth every cent!"

  • Ron & Jill

    "Our experience with your firm was very emotional in the beginning, but James listened and obviously cared about our situation. Peta handled our case very personally and Tanya very politely answered any questions I had when Peta was not available.... Read More

  • Sally

    "I was one of James Bailey's clients for a recent family law matter.  I just wanted to commend James on his great work. James was able to navigate my matter with diplomacy and ease and worked to finalise it very promptly, where my previous la... Read More

  • Simon & Bernadette

    "We wanted to pass on our most sincere heartfelt thanks for the excellent work and tremendous support over the last 2 years.  Though it was a very exhaustive and emotional time for us you always made it as painless as possible with friendly f... Read More

  • Steve

    “Dear Cassie, just a quick email to extend my gratitude to you, for providing me with such comprehensive documentation today. It’s very much appreciated. Also, thanks again, to yourself, James and your office, for all your hard work, a... Read More

  • Susan

    "Outstanding service and wealth of knowledge. Had lost faith in previous solicitor but James has regained my faith."

  • Susan

    "From the moment I first met with James Bailey back in April 2019 I felt immediate trust in him and that he had empathy and care for my situation.  Whilst it took more than 4 years for me to return we got there in the end and he made what was... Read More

  • Tracey

    "James Bailey was fantastic and showed a high level of knowledge of all the issues.  Everyone in the firm was friendly, professional and made the experience less daunting, this was from reception staff through to the solicitors."

  • Tracey G.

    "James Bailey has been a great support to me during the last 4 years and his knowledge and professionalism is outstanding."

  • Wendy

    “My case was a difficult one and James fought on for my settlement. Not once did he lose interest. I was well informed on every aspect. His personal assistants were amazing, polite and very understanding throughout. Everyone made t... Read More