Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers: Advocating with compassion

Diana Farah and Olivia Mailian have built their careers on advocating for justice with compassion. Diana, first female Partner in Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers’ history, has a long-standing dedication to helping clients navigate complex personal injury claims, while Olivia’s strong sense of equity and justice has driven her to become a role model for young women in law.

What inspired you to pursue a career in your field, and how did you get started?

Diana: I was drawn to the idea of helping people through difficult and life-changing experiences. It became clear to me that the legal profession, especially personal injury law, was a powerful way to make a tangible difference. I wanted to be part of something that allowed individuals to have a voice, particularly in times when they felt overwhelmed or powerless. I started my legal journey with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of New South Wales and joined Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers in July 1989. I was appointed the first female Partner in the firm’s history. Since then, I’ve been privileged to help clients navigate complex personal injury claims. My experience working for both plaintiffs and defendants gives me a unique perspective on how to approach cases, which shapes my practice.

Olivia: Growing up, I had a strong sense of equity and justice. I was around 10 and vividly remember standing up for a classmate who was being bullied. Despite being a shy child, I found my voice advocating for others and defending what I believed was right. This calling to promote fairness led me to pursue a combined degree in law and journalism. During my studies, I worked in journalism and public relations but soon realised that wasn’t the right fit. I knew I would find greater fulfilment practising law. My legal journey began serendipitously when, during a social event, a woman suggested I submit my resume to Carroll & O’Dea. I had no connections in the legal field, having migrated to Australia at age three and supported myself through university by working from age 14. Recognising the opportunity, I stayed up all night preparing my resume to send the next morning.

What moment in your career are you most proud of, and why does it stand out to you?

Diana: One of the moments I am most proud of is my work on Nye v State of New South Wales & Ors in 2003, the first successful suit for malicious prosecution in Australia. This case was significant, not just from a legal standpoint, but because it represented the perseverance required to achieve justice for a client in a deeply challenging situation. It is a reminder of why I became a lawyer—to help achieve justice for clients, even in the most difficult circumstances. The outcome had a lasting impact, and it remains a defining moment in my practice.

What advice do you have for young people looking to enter the working world?

Diana: For young people stepping into the professional world, particularly law, my advice is simple: work hard, be ethical and respectful, be diligent, develop strong negotiation skills, stay adaptable, and never lose sight of the human element in your work. Building relationships is just as important as mastering legal skills. Negotiation is a huge part of being a successful lawyer, particularly in areas like insurance litigation. A strong ability to negotiate can make the difference between achieving a positive outcome or not. Whether you’re interacting with clients, colleagues, or opposing parties, those relationships form the backbone of success in this profession.

What drives you to continuously enhance your professional skills?

Olivia: I take immense pride in my work and strive to be the best lawyer I can be. At the same time, I am my harshest critic. Achieving the best results for my clients is a constant motivator, and nothing gives me more satisfaction than securing a positive outcome. When I started practising, the courtroom lacked diversity in its practitioners. While this has improved, I remain mindful that my conduct—whether in court or during complex litigation—sets an example for the next generation. I aim to be a positive role model, especially for younger women entering the profession.

Have you faced any major challenges in your career? If so, how did you overcome them?

Olivia: Balancing a successful legal career with my personal life, especially after becoming a mother, has certainly been a challenge. I’ve learned to lean on my team, delegate when necessary, and establish firm boundaries to ensure I can be fully present both at work and at home. Setting boundaries is a skill that takes time to develop and doesn’t always come naturally. Some civil cases, particularly those involving children, can be emotionally draining. It’s not easy to compartmentalise or switch off after a tough day. For me, walking with my two dogs helps to alleviate the emotional toll. Volunteering has also been an important outlet—over the years, I’ve been involved with animal rescues and women’s shelters, which allow me to contribute to causes I care about.