In a sector often perceived as cold and impersonal, Parker Coles Curtis is rewriting the script. As Canberra’s leading female-led family law firm, it stands apart through a unique blend of legal expertise, compassion and community care.

A people-first approach

What truly sets Parker Coles Curtis apart is its people-first approach. The firm’s three directors—Catherine Coles, Debra Parker, and Jacquelyn Curtis—built their practice on care, empathy and genuine human connection.

“We are really driven by the importance of providing care to our clients,” says Catherine. “That’s what brought us together—the desire to demonstrate compassion, not just to our clients, but to the broader community as well. That’s what sets us apart from the standard legal firm.”

Unlike many firms that focus solely on legal processes, Parker Coles Curtis recognises that family law isn’t just about courtrooms and contracts—it’s about people rebuilding their lives.

Jacqui Curtis reinforces this, saying, “We never forget that at the centre of the legal process is a human being experiencing something deeply personal. Our clients receive more than legal services; they receive understanding, empathy, and care.”

A passion for family law

For these three directors, family law is more than just a career—it’s a calling.

Debra Parker recalls her early career, saying, “After graduating from law school in Adelaide, my husband and I packed all our belongings into an old Holden and moved to Canberra. When I got my first job, I fell in love with the law. I saw how much people needed someone to help them navigate difficult transitions and move forward to a better place.”

For Jacqui, the path to family law was unexpected. “I started with a degree in communication and journalism but took a media law class and discovered I loved the problem-solving aspect of the law. I wanted to help real people, and that led me to family law.”

Catherine, too, found her passion through hands-on experience. “At Legal Aid, I frequently gave advice at the magistrates’ court on family violence orders and personal protection orders. It was the connection with people that truly drew me in.”

A team that listens and adapts to your needs

At Parker Coles Curtis, clients are not just case files—they are individuals with unique stories and challenges. The firm’s all-female leadership and team bring an innate ability to listen, evaluate needs and adapt to each person’s circumstances.

Sarah Rodrigues explains, “As a female-led firm, our team is more inclined to sit down and actually listen to your story, evaluate your needs and offer personalised solutions. If you’re booked in for a one-hour consultation, but need more time, we won’t rush you out the door. We’ll give you the patience and bespoke advice you deserve, along with referrals to the right support networks.”

To make legal support even more accessible and comfortable, Parker Coles Curtis offers flexible consultation options tailored to different needs, including:
✔ Lounge Room Lawyer – Legal advice from the comfort of your home
✔ Lunch Time Lawyer – Convenient midday appointments for busy clients
✔ Supportive Spaces – Clients are welcome to bring a friend or family member for emotional support

This flexible and adaptable approach ensures that every client receives the time, attention, and care they need during an emotionally challenging time.

A law firm that gives back

Beyond individual client cases, Parker Coles Curtis is deeply committed to advocacy, education, and community support. The firm is a principal partner of the She Leads Conference, supporting women in leadership, and is actively involved in pro bono work for vulnerable individuals, including survivors of domestic violence and young men in crisis through Karinya House and Menslink.

This commitment to social responsibility and access to justice is another reason why the firm is more than just a legal practice—it’s a pillar of support for the Canberra community.

A new era in family law

Parker Coles Curtis proves that family law can be practised with both expertise and heart, prioritising people over process and compassion over conflict. To find out more or book a consultation, visit parkercolescurtis.com.au