Just Chat
JustChat is a podcast from The Law Society of NSW that explores the human stories behind the justice system. It features conversations with judges, legal leaders, lawmakers, and reformed lawbreakers, focusing on those who make and shape the law in New South Wales. The podcast aims to provide an unbiased, non-political look at the legal world.
Episodes
Episode 60 - The Rule of Law in a Time of War
Send us Fan MailSince Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the country has faced immense challenges to its democratic institutions. How can a country maintain the rule of law when its courts and legal professionals are targeted? In this special episode of Just Chat, guest host and president of the Law Society of NSW, Ronan MacSweeney, talks with two people who have been at the centre of the resilience
Episode 59 - Eamon Waterford
Send us Fan MailEarly in his career, Eamon Waterford’s involvement in a street count of homeless people in Sydney’s west made him angry. Today, equity and fairness are at the heart of his role as CEO of the Committee for Sydney. In this episode of Just Chat, Waterford discusses infrastructure, investment and why we should be talking more about what Sydney does well.
Episode 58 - Ivana Kovacevic
Send us Fan MailDescribing in-house legal counsel as the “Jack and Jill of all trades,” Ivana Kovacevic, multi-award-winning group general counsel and non-executive director, joins us to chat about the difference between private practice and in-house practice and she shares how in-house legal counsel are in a unique position to shape advice from the outset.
Episode 57 - Anthony Levin
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with human rights lawyer Anthony Levin for a deep dive into the experiences that forged his 20-year career at Legal Aid NSW. From his upbringing in Australia to the profound influence of his grandparents’ Holocaust survival stories, Anthony reflects on how these experiences shaped his perception of justice and his commitment to fighting for the marginal
Episode 56 - Justice Ian Harrison
Send us Fan MailThe Hon. Justice Ian Harrison has presided over a number of high-profile cases including the trial of Chris Dawson, speaking to us shortly before his swearing out ceremony late last year, he reflects on his career spanning five decades. He chats about the role of technology in the legal process, scrutiny by the public and the media, and diversity in the profession.
Episode 55 - Juliana Warner
Send us Fan MailAs President of the Law Council of Australia, Juliana Warner has represented the legal profession on a series of important issues, during a period of great change. In this episode, she returns to the Law Society of NSW to discuss the looming impact of the new AML/CTF legislation, the work of solicitors in local communities and the unfinished business for the profession.
Episode 54 - Kate Wild
Send us Fan MailAfter the shooting of young Warlpiri-Luritja man Kumanjayi Walker by NT police officer Zachary Rolfe, investigative journalist Kate Wild spent some time in that community broken not only by that tragic event but by generations of continuous systemic violence. The result is Wild's new shattering book The Red House. She joined us in the studio to talk about her experience and ho
Episode 53 - Ko Ko Aung
Send us Fan MailKo Ko Aung, recipient of the 2023 ‘John Gibson AM Young Australian Migration Lawyer of the Year', joins us to chat about what brought him to Australia from his native Myanmar, how his parents did not want him to study law, his passion for advocacy, social justice and the importance of making a difference.
Episode 52 - Baroness Helena Kennedy KC
Send us Fan MailOn this very special episode of Just Chat, guest host, and President of the Law Society of NSW, Jennifer Ball, interviews Baroness Helena Kennedy KC. Scottish Barrister, member of the House of Lords and Human Rights Activist, talks about her distinguished career and the importance of lawyers in maintaining the rule of law.
Episode 51 - James d'Apice
Send us Fan MailGravamen Principal Lawyer, and 'Coffee and a case note' podcast host, James d'Apice, comes to our studio to talk about the challenges in setting up his firm, how he used social media for good, and the other Australian law-based podcasts he can't live without.
Episode 50 - Dr Louise Buckingham
Send us Fan MailLouise Buckingham is CEO of Arts Law, Australia’s only community legal centre for artists and arts organisations. As creative industries face multiple headwinds, Louise discusses the impact of technology, how legal matters can be overwhelming for young artists and the vital role of pro bono lawyers.
Episode 49 - Justice Hament Dhanji
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Justice Hament Dhanji, of the Supreme Court of NSW. We explore everything from the impact of racial discrimination, to trust in institutions and the rule of law. In addition to his extensive background in criminal law as a solicitor, barrister and then Senior Counsel, on the bench, Justice Dhanji has played an active role in supporting diversity an
Episode 48 - Justine Zhou
Send us Fan MailJustine Zhou is Special Counsel at Speirs Ryan, with expertise across corporate, cyber and property law, and success in several legal awards. She talks with LSJ about her career experiences, beginning with an internship in Singapore, and how to turn crisis into opportunity.
Episode 47 - Larina Alick
Send us Fan MailExecutive Counsel for Nine Media talks about her career from legal receptionist to being involved with some of the most biggest defamation cases in the recent years, and her experience working directly with court journalists.
Episode 46 - Robert Bilott
Send us Fan MailBefore presenting his keynote at last year's Law Society Conference, U.S. Environmental lawyer Robert Bilott stopped by the Just Chat studio to talk about how he got involved in class action against DuPont chemicals, the effect it's having around the world on the fight against forever chemicals, and how it feels to have two Hollywood stars having dinner at his home in pre
Episode 45 - Brett McGrath
Send us Fan MailLaw Society outgoing President, Brett McGrath, reflects on his time in the role, and the changes facing the profession - from reaching out to our rural communities, to how AI can be used as a helpful professional tool. Finally he leaves a message to next year's President, Jennifer Ball. This episode is supported by NobleOak.
Episode 44 - Mimi Zou
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down for a captivating conversation with Professor Mimi Zou, Head of the School of Private & Commercial Law at UNSW Law & Justice. From her unique early experiences to her rise as a leading expert in the legal implications of AI, Professor Zou shares her remarkable journey. Hear the challenges, motivations, and compelling stories that have shaped her
Episode 43 - Nick Bryant
Send us Fan MailIn this special U.S. Election episode, Special Correspondent and guest host Joseph Friedman talks with author and journalist Nick Bryant about Australia's fascination with the U.S. election, the strategies both candidates should follow, and what he is looking for on November 5.This episode is supported by NobleOak.
Episode 42 - Jason Donnelly
Send us Fan MailAppointed as a university lecturer-in-law at 23 and a barrister at 25, Jason Donnelly has worked tirelessly to become one of Australia’s leading immigration and public law academics and barristers. From the most vulnerable members of society to the music and sporting world’s biggest names, he has represented them. He reflects on his remarkable journey, overcoming his challenges, an
Episode 41 – Justice Ingmar Taylor
Send us Fan MailThe Industrial Relations Court of NSW is back in operation, marking a significant shift in the state's approach to resolving workplace disputes and upholding work health and safety standards. As this new chapter begins, the President of the Industrial Relations Commission, Justice Ingmar Taylor, joins us to discuss his new role and the positive impact the court aims to have on
Episode 40 – Rosemary Kayess
Send us Fan MailSix months into her five-year term as Australia's Disability Discrimination Commissioner, Rosemary joins us in the studio to share her insights into the role, the challenges she's encountered, and the progress being made to advance the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities in Australia. Supported by NobleOak.
Episode 39 - Leo Patterson Ross
Send us Fan MailStepping into the CEO role of the Tenants Union of NSW during COVID-19 presented many challenges for Leo. In this episode, he shares with us his journey from a social worker passionately fighting for renters’ rights to leading an organisation dedicated to housing justice for all. Supported by NobleOak.
Episode 38 - Chief Justice Andrew Bell
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Chief Justice of NSW Andrew Bell shares his thoughts on the bicentenary of the Supreme Court of NSW. He reflects on the court's rich history including the most challenging moments (and colourful characters) of the past 200 years, the significance of being a part of this moment in history, what's next for the court, and the potential issues lawyers and cou
Episode 37 - Craig Foster
Send us Fan MailEx-socceroo Craig Foster is a busy person. Nowadays a sports commentator, he plays soccer as a hobby, and complements it with activism, helping Hakeem al-Araibi return to Australia, and his work in the Australian Republican movement. He dials in with Just Chat to talk about refugee rights in Australia and playing against one of the best soccer teams of all time. Supported by NobleO
Episode 36 - Jamelle Wells
Send us Fan MailAs the Senior Court Reporter for the ABC, Jamelle Wells has a privileged point of view on the mechanisms of justice in New South Wales. She has seen both the most thrilling, and most mundane court sessions, but always kept her curiosity. In this episode Jamelle reminisces with ex court reporter, Amy Dale, and talks about what she learned about Australia's justice system resear
Episode 35 - Jahan Kalantar
Send us Fan MailThe start of the pandemic brought rapidly changing and confusing regulations. Jahan saw a gap that needed to be filled and decided to make daily videos explaining the updates to the everyday person. This gave birth to the "TikTok lawyer”, who garnered a following of over 350K and was featured in a Netflix documentary.He discusses the importance of social media for solicitors a
Episode 34 - Cassandra Banks
Send us Fan MailBefore she passes the baton of the Law Society Presidency, Cassandra Banks sits with Amy Dale to talk about her experience as the President, her proudest achievements, how to overcome the fear of speaking in public, and her message to the next president, Brett McGrath.Sponsored by NobleOak.
Episode 33 - Justice Steven Rares
Send us Fan MailSpeaking on the eve of his retirement, Justice Steven Rares shares what it's been like to spend 17 years on the Federal Court of Australia. He also speaks about his interest in defamation law and the high profile cases he has worked on, plus what's driven him personally in law. Sponsored by NobleOak.
Episode 32 - Thomas Mayo
Send us Fan MailWith two weeks to go before the referendum on the Voice to Parliament, Amy Dale talks with activist, community leader, and signatory of the Uluru Statement From The Heart, Thomas Mayo about the referendum, the elders who have inspired him and how he fights back against trolling and misinformation. Supported by NobleOak.
Episode 31 - Sally Dowling
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, NSW Director of Public Prosecutions Sally Dowling chats about the best advice she has received as a legal practitioner, what justice means to her and her 'must watch' tv and movie recommendations. Supported by NobleOak.
Episode 30: Nicholas Stewart (redux)
Send us Fan MailThe 2022 winner of the Law Society's President's Medal, Nicholas Stewart, returns to Just Chat to discuss the cases and causes close to his heart, the aftermath of his win and recent trips to the cinema. Episode supported by NobleOak.
Episode 29 - Andrew Tiedt
Send us Fan MailAndrew Tiedt has regularly helped LSJ in articles about Criminal Law. Now he sits down with Francisco Silva to talk about his journey into the profession, his thoughts about the jury system, and the moral conundrums of a criminal lawyer. Episode supported by NobleOak.
Episode 28 - Dom Knight
Send us Fan MailDom Knight was studying law when he founded The Chaser with a group of friends. In this episode of Just Chat, he talks with Floyd Alexander-Hunt about his career with the satirical group, from how it runs as a business to how he almost got arrested. Supported by NobleOak
Episode 27: James Allsop
Send us Fan MailJames Allsop was Chief Justice of the Federal Court of Australia for 10 years. One month after leaving the role, he talks about how technology is changing the court system, his work in native title cases, and his proudest moments. Supported by NobleOak.
Episode 26 - Trent Wallace
Send us Fan MailFor this week, Just Chat becomes Just Yarn. Trent Wallace now lives in Brisbane, but his journey in law went from his community in the Central Coast, to the legal centres in Sydney. He sits down with Francisco Silva for a yarn on his experience as a queer First Nations man, and the importance of pro-bono work. Supported by NobleOak
Episode 25 - Justice Dina Yehia
Send us Fan MailFor the first episode of 2023, Keely McDonough sits down with NSW Supreme Court Justice Dina Yehia for a discussion about the moments that have shaped her career and how to make the profession more inclusive. Supported by NobleOak.
Episode 24 - Joanne van der Plaat
Send us Fan MailFor our final episode of 2022, Keely McDonough speaks to the Law Society's outgoing president, Joanne van der Plaat. Joanne reflects on navigating the profession out of COVID, the toll of natural disasters and a year of advocacy on many fronts. This episode is supported by NobleOak
Episode 23 - Suzie Miller
Send us Fan MailPlaywriter Suzie Miller worked as a lawyer in King's Cross when she got the calling to write a play about the stories she was living. Since then, her career has skyrocketed commercially and critically. As her play Prima Facie is about to start a Broadway run, Suzie releases her one-woman show about Ruth Bader Ginsberg, RBG: Of Many, One, currently playing at the Sydney Theatre
Episode 22 - Bill Browder
Send us Fan MailBill Browder is a financier turned political activist, dubbed a chief enemy of Vladimir Putin. Dialling in from London, he tells Amy Dale about how the murder of his lawyer inspired a global campaign for Magnitsky laws.
Episode 21 - Carina Ford
Send us Fan MailThe Murugappan family became the face of Australia's tough asylum-seeker policies. Their lawyer Carina Ford dials in to talk about the family's return to Biloela, the unspoken trauma of immigrants, and the policies needed to support refugees.
Episode 19 - Rick Welsh
Send us Fan MailAccess to justice is at the heart of everything Rick Welsh does. The proud Murrawarri man is the coordinator of The Shed, an Aboriginal suicide prevention service based in Western Sydney, and speaks candidly to Keely McDonough about improving the Indigenous community’s relationship with the legal system.
Episode 18 - Courtney Bowie
Send us Fan MailAward-winning business owner and CEO Courtney Bowie is doing her part to create a world where law firms focus more on tackling gender discrimination, innovation and mental health than billable hours. Supported by Unisearch.
Episode 17 - Diana Reid
Send us Fan MailDiana Reid was starting her legal career when the pandemic drove her to tick off a new bucket list item: write a book. Diana tells Amy Dale about the resulting bestseller and the letters exchanged with a legendary Australian author. Supported by Unisearch.
Episode 16 - Tim Watson-Munro
Send us Fan MailFrom murderers and rapists to hitmen and gangsters, Criminal Psychologist Tim Watson-Munro has come face to face with some of the most violent individuals around Australia and the world. Tim sits down with Keely McDonough to discuss his colourful career, his unique perspective of the justice system and how he worked his way up from rock bottom.Supported by Unisearch.
Episode 15 - Rachael Wallbank
Send us Fan MailRachael Wallbank has been at the forefront of the cases that have shaped the law for transgender rights in Australia. As she approaches retirement, 30 years sober and 27 years as an affirmed female, Rachael reveals her path to happiness and why the profession must embrace difference.Supported by Unisearch.
Episode 14 - Thomas Russell
Send us Fan MailThomas Russell is one of the state’s leading business lawyers – but he drives an Uber in his spare time and thinks you should too. Thomas sits down with LSJ to discuss the legal jargon he loves to hate, why he debates strangers on Facebook, how his first day in a courtroom shaped his career today, and why he is proud to be part of the Law Society’s new campaign, Lawfully Explained.
Episode 13 - Juliana Warner
Send us Fan MailWe return for our final interview of the year and a chance to hear from Juliana Warner, Law Society's outgoing president. Juliana started her presidency with very defined plans for the profession, but the longest state lockdown ever recorded forced her to adapt her ideas to the ever-changing reality we were all experiencing. Amy Dale sits down with Juliana and discusses the hi
Episode 12 - Amani Haydar
Send us Fan MailAmani Haydar is a lawyer, artist, advocate and mother who has just released her first book, The Mother Wound: detailing the aftermath of the murder of her mother by her husband, Amani’s father in 2015. Amani tells Amy Dale about returning to her darkest days to pen the memoir and where she stands in the debate about criminalising coercive control.
Episode 11 - Brendan Thomas
Send us Fan MailLegal Aid CEO and proud Wiradjuri man Brendan Thomas sits down with Amy Dale to talk about his decades of work improving the criminal justice system, what this year's NAIDOC theme means to him and why Aboriginal history should be visible on the streets of Sydney
Episode 10 - Bri Lee
Send us Fan MailLawyer, author and advocate Bri Lee sits down with Amy Dale to discuss her new book Who Gets To Be Smart, her response to the NSW Government’s proposed consent law changes and why she leaves the room when The Simpsons is on.Who Gets To Be Smart can be purchased here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/who-gets-to-be-smart-bri-lee/book/9781760879808.html
Episode 9 - Shane Fitzsimmons
Send us Fan MailShane Fitzsimmons sits down with Kate Allman to talk about taking a leadership position during the bushfires and being appointed head of Resilience NSW.
Episode 8 - Andrew Simpson
Send us Fan MailThis month Just Chat dives into the findings of the Royal Commission into Aged Care and Quality, nursing home deaths from COVID-19, elder abuse and the high cost of growing old in Australia. Our special guest is Andrew Simpson, national head of wills and estates at Maurice Blackburn.
Episode 7 - Nicole Evans and Jake Fing
Send us Fan MailIn this special Mardi Gras episode of Just Chat, Claire Chaffey talks with Nicole Evans and Jake Fing about their experiences in the legal profession as LGBTQI lawyers, how those in the profession can be more effective allies, and how lawyers can better represent LGBTQI clients.
Episode 6 - Nick Cowdery
Send us Fan MailAmy Dale sits down with former NSW DPP Nicholas Cowdery. In a wide-ranging conversation, the ex-top prosecutor reveals his views on decriminalising drugs, euthanasia, his most memorable case and why you won’t see him bingeing the latest Netflix true crime series.
Episode 5 - James Horsburgh
Send us Fan MailTHIS EPISODE INCLUDES EXPLICIT LANGUAGEOn 7 October 2004, James Horsburgh’s world turned upside down. A promising law student and rugby player at the time, he suffered an accident that left him a quadriplegic. Now James, or Teddy to his close friends, is a successful lawyer, an Accredited Specialist in family law, a husband, and a father to three beautiful girls. We sat down with h
Episode 4 - Teela Reid
Send us Fan MailTeela Reid is a proud Wiradjuri and Wailwan woman and lawyer. In a revealing conversation, she talks to LSJ about family, her determination to improve the criminal justice system for Aboriginal people and why she took a former Prime Minister to task on live television.This episode is supported by Legal Home Loans - visit www.legalhomeloans.com.au
Just Chat - Episode 3 - Kara Shead SC
Send us Fan MailBefore she became a Judge of the District Court of NSW in 2019, Kara Shead SC spent more than 20 years as both a crown prosecutor and public defender. She made plenty of mistakes on the way to becoming a master advocate, and learned some hard lessons about how to cope with the enormous pressure that can come with working as a lawyer.
Just Chat - Episode 2 - Sarah Khan and Zaahir Edries
Send us Fan MailThe treatment of people of colour in the justice system has seen a global reckoning in 2020, as protests sweep the world. Zaahir Edries and Sarah Khan, leaders in the Muslim legal community in NSW, share their experiences graduating in the aftermath of September 11 and how they overcame prejudice.
Just Chat - Episode 1 - Michael Coutts-Trotter
Send us Fan MailJust over 30 years ago, Michael Coutts-Trotter was a convicted drug dealer living in Long Bay prison. Today, as Secretary of the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, he is responsible for managing the state’s prisons and trying to help so many others find a second chance.
Recommended
GayFL
Grow With Intention by MuchelleB
The Dead Can't Sue
Inside Commercial Law
Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families
The Aussie Pastor Live
Whats the Schemata? A Schema Therapy Podcast
The Nero Show
Encounter: Interviews with Karl Faase - Season 1
Laughter, Dirt and Education
Emotions of Change
Follow The Money
