Michelle Jeffrey joined Ward Keller as a senior lawyer in mid-2023. She practises in the firm’s family law division, working mainly on property and parenting matters, family violence orders and some crime matters.

Michelle practised in both Victoria and New South Wales in family law and criminal law before relocating to Darwin in 2023. She also held an honorary board position for a mental health organisation when she lived overseas.

Before law, Michelle had a career in criminology after studying a Bachelor of Arts (honours and then masters) in criminology at the University of Melbourne. She went on to do her Masters of Law at Monash University.

Michelle enjoyed her work as a criminologist but decided to swap over to law. ‘I wanted to have more of an impact – to effect change,’ she said. ‘When our clients come to us in family law, it’s often difficult for them. I enjoy advocating for clients at those difficult times in their lives and helping them achieve results.’

I’m enjoying it here at Ward Keller,’ said Michelle. ‘Darwin obviously has its challenges with the different seasons, but Ward Keller is exceptional. It’s a very collegiate team.’

When she’s not at work, Michelle loves travelling and exploring all the Territory has to offer.

Areas of Law

  • Family law
  • Criminal law

Qualifications & Memberships

  • Leo Cussen Practical Legal Training course (2012)
  • Master of Laws (JD), Monash University (2012)
  • Master of Arts, University of Melbourne (2000)
  • Bachelor of Arts (Hons), University of Melbourne. Majors: criminology and linguistics (1995)
  • Admitted to practise in the Supreme Court of Victoria (2013)
  • Entered the High Court Register of Practitioners (2013)

Contact Details