While HopgoodGanim Partner Alison Ross was at first unsure of her career path, she found her way to family law and has not looked back.
The Accredited Family Law Specialist celebrated 25 years as a Queensland Law Society member at the Celebrate Recognise Socialise event at Brisbane’s Customs House on Wednesday night. 
Alison is congratulated by President Rebecca Fogerty.
“Not unlike many people, I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted to study when I finished school. What started with indecision, I now love my career as a lawyer,” Alison said.
“My first role was as a Judge’s Associate in what was then the Family Court of Australia, which piqued my interest in family law and I’ve continued on that path ever since.
“I enjoy the diversity that family law brings. Every day is different and talking to clients about their life and circumstances is always interesting.
“Every matter and every client is unique. And it’s immensely satisfying when we are able to achieve a great outcome together.
“The best feedback I’ve received is ‘thank you for helping me change my life’ – those are the clients that make the challenging days worthwhile.”
This year has been a special one for Alison as the firm, where she started more than 26 years ago, has also celebrated a milestone – 50 years.
Alison at the Customs House event.
The firm recently held a celebration at the Queensland Art Gallery to mark the occasion.
“It was great to catch up with alumni and former clients to celebrate our shared success, as well as the evolution of the firm over the past 50 years,” Alison recalled.
“I joined HopgoodGanim in January 1998, and it has grown and transformed immensely since then.
“While so much has changed, what stood out for me joining was, from day one, being able to run my own matters with the partners of the firm.
“Having that client contact and ‘learning by doing’ approach is still very much a part of the HopgoodGanim way to this day, which is a testament to the firm and our commitment to the next generation.”
And Alison has also shown that commitment through her volunteer work at QLS as the immediate past Chair of the Family Law Committee.
“I’m delighted to be receiving a 25-year pin from QLS, and to be sharing this milestone with other lawyers across Queensland,” she said.
“I’m grateful that QLS take the time to recognise their members in this way. Having a Society that advocates for the profession and participates in law reform is incredibly important, and I’m looking forward to the next milestone with QLS.”
Keep an eye on Proctor for more articles and photos from the event this week.
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