Michael Zande

Director and Solicitor

Michael was admitted to practice as a Solicitor in Queensland in 1987 having completed his prior 6 year Articled Clerkship in what was then his father’s city based law firm of Welldon & Zande. Michael spent the early years of his career in a high end Brisbane CBD commercial practice working extensively in the fields of Commercial and Property Law including Property Conveyancing and development, Joint ventures, Business acquisition and sales, Corporate finance, leasing, Taxation, Stamp Duty, Wills and Deceased estate administration and Commercial Litigation. By the early 90’s, Michael had developed a strong interest in Family Law dispute resolution and shortly after moved exclusively into this field.

In 1996, the Queensland Law Society established a special programme to vet and identify Family Law practitioners exhibiting excellence in every aspect of Family Law. In 1997, Michael attained accreditation under this programme as a recognised Family Law specialist. Of the 3000 (approximate number) Lawyers practicing in Queensland at this time only 80 had achieved accreditation under this programme. Presently there are still only 152 Accredited Family Law Specialists throughout all of Queensland and of this number, only six (including Michael) are practising in the Brisbane northern suburban areas.

Michael’s solid grounding in the fields of Commercial and Property Law, enable him to approach Family Law property cases with a strong understanding of the commercial principles either at play historically or currently in issue. This is a distinct advantage in resolving disputes of this nature. Michael’s 15 + years experience specialising in Family Law has also given him exceptional skills in resolving children’s dispute matters through the full spectrum of the very simple to the very complicated.

Since 2003, Michael has re-enlivened his practice in the fields of Conveyancing, Wills and Administration of Deceased Estates and this combined with his past extensive experience in these areas has re-established a high level of proficiency in these fields.

Qualifications: LLB Queensland University of Technology / AccSpec Family Law
Admission: 1987 Supreme Court of Queensland | 1991 High Court of Australia
Memberships: Queensland Law Society, The Law Council of Australia (Family Law Division), Family Law Practitioners Assocation of Queensland.

Jennifer Zande

Director and Solicitor

Jennifer was admitted to practice in 1988 having completed her 6 year Articled Clerkship in two successive Brisbane CBD high profile Litigation firms.

From the mid 80’s Jennifer moved into specialist practice working exclusively in Personal injuries litigation and soon after established a dedicated personal injuries department within Trilby Misso Lawyers. Jennifer took partnership in that firm in 1994 and thereafter the firm evolved from a suburban practice into a nationally recognised personal injury practise now based exclusively in the Brisbane CBD.

From 2003, Jennifer undertook responsibility for the firm’s Redcliffe Branch Office wherein she took full responsibility for overseeing and conducting that firm’s very busy Conveyancing and Wills and Estates practice. Through that exposure, Jennifer has developed a keen interest and proficiency in these areas of law together with estate planning.

Born and raised in Redcliffe, Jennifer is a former School Captain of Redcliffe State High School and has been a long time contributor to community organisations such as management and finance committees at the Grace Créche and Primary School.  Jennifer has also served as board member for several years on the Redcliffe Hospital Ethics Committee as well as receiving a ministerial appointment to the Redcliffe Hospital Foundation.

Notable Achievements:

• Served as a Member of the Redcliffe Hospital Ethics Committee.
• Served as the Director of the Redcliffe Hospital Association.
• Prior to Zande Law, was a partner at Trilby Misso for 12 years.

Qualifications: LLB Queensland University of Technology
Admission: 1990 Supreme Court of Queensland | 1991 High Court of Australia
Memberships: Queensland Law Society

Joshua Noble

Solicitor

Josh joined the team at Zande Law as a solicitor in November 2014 in our Family Law Department and handles many of our more complex property settlement and parenting cases.

In 2023, Josh obtained the highly prestigious status of an Accredited Family Law Specialist – an elite and very select group of solicitors recognised by the Queensland Law Society as having enhanced skills and a high proficiency in their area. This accreditation remains a testament to his years of practise and dedication to constant improvement. One of Josh’s highest attributes is his efficiency and forward-thinking capability. As soon as any action plan is mapped out, he is remarkably quick in delivering upon it. Josh is absolutely dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for all of his clients but never loses sight of the importance to minimise costs and seize opportunities for healthy compromises where and whenever they might arise. Josh is held in high regard by many other Family Lawyers working in the field and this often proves pivotal in securing highly effective co-operation from the opposing Family Lawyer even in heavily contested disputes. Josh consistently wins high praise from many of our clients for his dedication to excellence in the running of their cases and the exceptional results which are consequently produced.

In 2024, we were excited to expand with a new office in Cleveland which Josh runs and where he is proud to be able to support his local community.

Outside of work, Josh and his wife have three children and he remains a dedicated sports enthusiast.

Joshua Zande

Solicitor

Joshua joined Zande Law in September 2013 as a Law Clerk while pursuing his Bachelor of Law at Central Queensland University and practical legal training at the College of Law. He Graduated with his Bachelor of Law in March 2018 and was admitted as a Lawyer in August 2018.

Josh’s main areas of practice are Elder Law, including Wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney, Advance Health Directives, and Estate Planning. Josh has a soft spot for the elderly, He likes to help, particularly in issues surrounding capacity and family disputes. He also practices in some areas of property law, Conveyancing, Retirement Villages and extending to areas such as Reverse Mortgage Advice, Personal Guarantor Advice on Bank Loans, Deceased Estate Administration and litigation, amongst others.

Recognised for his ability to effectively communicate with clients and to find cost effective outcomes, we are confident that Josh is a lawyer you can count on. Josh works with a team of paralegals who are committed to excellence, meticulous attention to detail, and dedication to achieving favourable outcomes.

Josh remains enthusiastic about continual learning and overcoming the constant challenges of the legal profession, He prioritises open communication and collaboration, ensuring clients feel supported and informed throughout every stage of their legal journey.

Qualifications

• Central Queensland University Bachelor of Law
• College of Law Practical Training

Admission

• 2018 Supreme Court of Queensland

Bader Pendergast-Lee

Solicitor

Bader started working for Zande Law as a Lawyer in 2023. Bader’s interest and fascination with Law as well as his passion for helping people is what pushed him to study Law. He graduated from Griffith University with a Double bachelor’s degree in Law and Arts, majoring in Chinese and was admitted as a Lawyer in August 2021. Bader is known for his advocacy skills and the ability to remain composed under pressure while communicating openly and honestly during times of stress. He works primarily in our Family Law, Wills, and Estate departments, where he applies his expertise and dedication to serving our clients’ needs.

Bader’s biggest career accomplishment is that he made a successful argument in the Supreme Court to have approximately two million dollars donated to a charity from a deceased Estate. Looking ahead, Bader aims to pass the bar examination and transition into a role as a Barrister.

Memberships

• • Family Law Practitioners Association Qld

Qualifications

• • • Griffith University Double bachelor’s degree in law and arts, majoring in Chinese

Admission

• • 2021 Supreme Court of Queensland

Bethany Bellion

Solicitor

Bethany joined our Family Law team in February 2023 as a Paralegal where she gained invaluable experience assisting senior Lawyers in various Family Law matters. In January 2024 she transitioned into the role of a junior Lawyer. Having earned her Bachelor of Laws with a Minor in Criminology from The University of the Sunshine Coast in 2022, followed by a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from The Queensland University of Technology in 2023, Bethany’s journey towards her legal career was marked by steady academic achievements.

Bethany was admitted to the Queensland Supreme Court in December 2023 and officially became a Solicitor in January 2024, focusing on Family Law, Divorce and Wills. Bethany’s passion for Law was ignited during her high school years when she studied Legal studies, solidifying her career path.

At Zande Law, Bethany finds immense joy in the camaraderie with her colleagues. She thrives on the opportunity to learn something new each day, whether it’s from her peers or gaining insights into her clients’ interests and passions. Bethany’s innate empathy serves as a pillar of support for clients navigating challenging times.

Bethany aspires is to integrate her legal profession with her passion for travel and travel the world while practicing Law.

Qualifications

• University of the Sunshine Coast Bachelor of Laws with a Minor in Criminology
• Queensland University of Technology Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice

Admission

• 2023 Supreme Court of Queensland
• 2024 High Court of Australia

Helen Ireland

Paralegal

Helen has spent in excess of 40 years in the legal industry as a conveyancing paralegal clerk. Her longevity in the industry has given her exposure to and experience with practically any and every conceivable issue that might arise in a conveyancing matter which equips her with an adept ability to not only keep matters on track but sniff out and resolve issues before they become unmanageable problems.

Rebecca Scott

Paralegal

Rebecca has been a valuable member of our team since 2009, working as a Paralegal primarily in our Administration of Estates Department. Over the years, she has become an integral part of the team, known not only for her professionalism but also for her compassionate approach to her work.

Rebecca always strives to provide the highest level of support to clients during what is often a difficult and emotional time following the passing of a loved one. Her empathy and understanding make her a comforting presence for clients as they navigate the complexities of estate matters.

Clients often express appreciation for how she remembers the smallest details about their cases and their personal situations. This attentiveness and ability to recall vital information ensures that the process moves forward smoothly. She also excels at managing multiple tasks simultaneously, making her an invaluable asset to both our team and the clients we serve.

Olivia Barber

Paralegal

Olivia studied a Bachelor of Criminology and Justice at Queensland University of Technology and started working for Zande Law in 2023 as a Paralegal in our Retirement Leases and Deceased Estates departments. Since becoming a member of our team, Olivia has been committed to supporting clients during challenging times, particularly when assisting elderly clients in transitioning from their residences into Retirement Homes. She also provides valuable guidance to families administering estates following the passing of a loved one.

Olivia is passionate about helping others and finds fulfillment in ensuring that clients feel supported and well-informed throughout each step of their legal journey. Her empathetic and understanding attitude has earned her the trust of those seeking guidance and support.

Madeline Crnkovic

Paralegal

Madeline began her role as a Paralegal at Zande Law in 2022 and is currently completing a double degree in Law and Business (Economics) at the Queensland University of Technology.

Assisting in Wills and Estates, Madeline supports our solicitors with the preparation of legal documents, legal research, and file management. Known for her empathetic nature, she understands the emotional challenges clients experience and finds fulfillment in providing them with peace of mind through developing solutions tailored to their specific needs.

Andrea Cooper

Junior Paralegal

Andrea is a Paralegal currently in her third year of studying a Bachelor of Law degree at Queensland University of Technology. She joined Zande Law in 2024 and works in our Family Law department. Andrea finds fulfilment in guiding clients through challenging situations and values the daily learning opportunities provided by her work.

She values the supportive environment of her colleagues and feels fortunate to have secured this position early in her career, enabling her to build upon her expertise and practical experience within Family Law. Upon graduating from university, she aspires to be admitted as a Lawyer so that she can continue practicing Family Law.

Andrea’s ability to adapt is a crucial skill in Family Law, as cases often involve rapidly changing circumstances that require swift adjustments to legal strategies and client needs. Her precision is vital in drafting legal documents and preparing cases, ensuring accuracy in every detail to support clients effectively.

Kim Thomas

Accounts Manager

Kim began her journey with Zande Law in 2010, joining as our Accounts Manager. She briefly left for 18 months due to a move to Sydney but returned in September 2022 and has been working for Zande Law ever since.

Known for her honesty, loyalty, and dedication, she strives to excel in her role and contribute positively to the company. Her genuine dedication drives her to consistently deliver excellence in her work, ensuring the financial operations run smoothly and efficiently. She finds great joy in her work, largely due to the camaraderie she shares with her colleagues.

Carley Jakeman

Receptionist

Carley serves as a dedicated receptionist at Zande Law, where she has been an integral part of the team since late 2023. Her role is crucial in managing the firm’s front desk operations and ensuring smooth communication between clients, lawyers, and staff.

As soon as you walk through our front door, you will receive a warm greeting from Carley. She is known for her welcoming demeanour and professionalism and creates a positive first impression for clients and visitors.

Charlotte Meehan

Marketing

Charlotte started working for Zande Law in 2024 after graduating with a Bachelors in Graphic Design and Communications from Griffith University in 2023. Since joining the team, she has taken on the responsibility of marketing and managing our social media. She has a passion for using creative strategies to develop engaging content, from sharing relevant articles to providing updates on Zande Law’s activities. Charlotte ensures our clients stay up to date with relevant information while fostering meaningful connections within our community.