Merridy Elphick – Founder & Partner
Bachelor of Social Sciences
Bachelor of Law
Diploma of Legal Practice
I spend a lot of time with clients who are unable to reach an agreement with regard to either the arrangements for their children or their property. Many clients need time to consider their options. A few clients want some advice before they make a decision to separate. Family law is a very personal area and each of my clients handles their matter in a different way.
While studying Merridy worked as a volunteer with the Public Interest Advocacy Centre on inquests into Police shootings and provided voluntary work for legal educators in East Timor. Her non legal work has included life as an organic farmer. Since giving up the tree change Merridy has pursued her passion and belief in human rights in her legal practice.
Merridy now leads our Family Law Team and has clients throughout Australia. Merridy is experienced in dealing with a wide range of people and appears in Family Law matters in Newcastle, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide.
Merridy is a trained mediator and believes that for many people the best result is one that is achieved without litigation. She understands that mediation can only be of value when both parties’ interests are considered.
Unfortunately, some people are unable to resolve their differences without the need for Family Court proceedings. When it comes to these proceedings, Merridy brings a wealth of experience and legal skills to her matters, giving her clients confidence that they will achieve the best possible result.
Email. melphick@bemlaw.com.au
Michael Burke – Founder & Partner
Bachelor of Commerce
Bachelor of Law
Diploma of Legal Practice
I made the decision before my first day of work that I wanted to practice exclusively in Criminal Law. That is a decision that I have gladly stood by. It is an area where the increases in complexity of the law are only matched by the increases in available penalties. There is a perception that some areas of Criminal Law are “easy”, such as traffic offences. This could not be further from the truth. Those types of matters can have devastating impacts on people’s lives. I respect the need to ensure that my clients get the best possible advice and representation. That is why I, and the other members of my team, continue to practice exclusively in Criminal Law.
Michael has built his practice on the virtues of integrity and a strong work ethic. Practising with these principles he has built a solid reputation among his peers.
Michael combines his legal skills with his “Country Boy” personality. Michael grew up in the small country town of Nemingha in northern New South Wales. All of his clients are met with a big smile and quickly realise he is not a stereotypical lawyer.
Email. mburke@bemlaw.com.au
Emma Mead – Founder & Partner
Bachelor of Commerce
Bachelor of Law (Honours)
Diploma of Legal Practice
Accredited Specialist Personal Injury Law
Emma started her personal injury law career in Sydney. Emma has practised exclusively in personal injury law since that time and has represented many people who have had the misfortune to be injured in a car accident, at work or in a public place.
Emma is an Accredited Specialist in Personal Injury Law, appointed through the Law Society of NSW. She is appointed by the NSW Motor Accidents Authority as a Preferred Practitioner to provide legal services to families of brain injured and spinal cord injured children.
Emma is a very experienced lawyer, who has appeared in the District and Supreme Courts and Court of Appeal representing her clients’ interests.
Emma understands the need to communicate with the parents of injured children, as well as the team of specialists, social workers and insurance companies who assist in managing their child’s needs and rehabilitation.
Emma’s compassionate approach to the practise of law means that she strives to help her clients as best she can during what is a very difficult time for them. Emma combines this compassion with skill and experience, and brings to each matter a focus and determination to obtain the best results for her client.
By practising law in this way, Emma has gained an excellent reputation and is well respected by her peers, the insurers and the lawyers who advise them.
After 13 years with a large firm as Partner and Director, Emma joined Merridy and Michael to form a dynamic partnership. Emma brings to Burke Elphick & Mead™ strong leadership skills and many years of litigation experience.
Email. emead@bemlaw.com.au
