A Wollongong lawyer who is working to set up a pro-bono advice service for refugees in the Illawarra has been named a finalist in the 2016 Australian Law Awards.
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Melinda Griffiths is the only Illawarra finalist in the the regional/suburban category.
The principal lawyer at Slater and Gordon Wollongong has lived in the Wollongong area for 20 years is Vice President of the Wollongong and Regional Law Society and also Vice President of the Wollongong Charter for the Women’s Lawyers.
She’s also passionate about improving legal assistance for women and children in situations of domestic abuse.
In her submission for the award Ms Griffiths said that to complete a client’s claim “and have them smile and thank you for your work, often after months/years of anguish, is my greatest achievement”.
“I gain the most satisfaction from knowing that the hard work that I have undertaken has made a difference in my clients’ lives. I represent a number of clients whom have been the victims of child sex abuse,” she said.
“I have had to see many clients whose lives were so greatly impacted by the abuse that it has led to a life of imprisonment and destruction.
“Again, seeing such clients and assisting them with their claims, whilst emotionally demanding, has been very satisfying.”
Ms Griffiths is also a serving member of the Wollongong Charter for the Women’s Lawyers association serving as the vice president.
“I am passionate about providing local support for female lawyers and assisting to empower them in their careers,” she said.
“As a female lawyer I have seen the difficulties that women have experienced in advancing their career.
“To be on a committee which promotes the recognition of these issues and to work within the industry to promote change is a great privilege.
“Within the community it is my belief that I have been very fortunate in life and it is important to give to others in the community whom need assistance.”
She undertook a campaign within the office for the Need a Feed Association which provides meals to those who are struggling.
“I have had clients who have had to rely on this service and it is great service to for the community,” she said.
Australian Law Award winners are announced on September 2.
