Julie Dobinson

Julie is an Accredited Family Law Specialist and mediator with extensive experience in all areas of family law.

Before joining Carew Counsel as Special Counsel, Julie was a founding partner of DDCS Lawyers, an award-winning Canberra firm established in 2007 and recognised for its work in family law, wills and estates, estate litigation and business succession.

Julie is known for combining compassion, empathy and tenacity to help clients navigate separation, parenting and financial matters with confidence. She understands that family law is deeply personal, and takes the time to listen carefully, understand what truly matters, and guide clients with clarity, respect and practical advice.

As a mediator, Julie focuses on helping clients and practitioners achieve durable, sensible outcomes while minimising conflict wherever possible. She has particular experience in dispute resolution, collaborative law and complex family law matters, and has been recognised by Doyle’s Guide as a Leading Family & Divorce Lawyer in Canberra and a Recommended Family Law Mediator.

Julie also brings a strong commitment to professional leadership and community service. She has served as Chair of Law Australasia, was the founding President of the Canberra Region Family Law Professionals Association and has contributed to the ACT legal profession through her work with the ACT Law Society and the Women’s Legal Centre.