Meet Our Team

Justin Geldard is a distinguished legal professional and the Principal Solicitor at Geldard Sherrington Lawyers. Admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland and the High Court of Australia in 2000, Justin has a solid foundation in law, complimented by a double degree in Law and Banking (Business & Finance) from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in Brisbane.

Justin began his legal career in Brisbane, where he honed his skills in various areas of law. In 2002, he made the strategic move to Hervey Bay, where he has since become a respected figure in the legal community. In 2006, Justin established Geldard Sherrington Lawyers, which under his leadership has grown into a reputable firm known for its integrity, professionalism, and commitment to clients.

With a practice that spans a wide range of legal areas, Justin takes a special interest in Succession Law (Wills, Estate Planning, Estate Litigation), Family Law, and Criminal Law. His expertise in these fields is well-recognised, and he is dedicated to providing clients with tailored legal solutions that meet their unique needs.

Beyond his legal practice, Justin is an active member of the Hervey Bay community. He is deeply involved in various community organizations and currently serves as the Chairperson of Fraser Coast Community Enterprises, which operates the local Bendigo Bank branch. Justin's commitment to community development and social responsibility is a testament to his character and values.

At Geldard Sherrington Lawyers, Justin leads a team of skilled professionals who share his dedication to excellence and client-focused service. His leadership and experience continue to drive the firm's success and its positive impact on the lives of its clients and the broader community.

Virginia Ukpabi is a dedicated and skilled solicitor at Geldard Sherrington Lawyers, specialising in Criminal Law. She joined the firm after completing her Juris Doctor at Griffith University, where she was recognised for her academic excellence with the Griffith Award for Academic Excellence. Virginia furthered her legal education by obtaining a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from the College of Law.

Admitted to the Supreme Court of Queensland and the High Court of Australia in early 2022, Virginia has quickly established herself as a knowledgeable and committed legal practitioner. Her experience prior to admission includes working as a clerk at one of Queensland's largest private criminal law firms and serving as a legal researcher for the Griffith University Innocence Project.

Virginia's practice is primarily focused on criminal law, where she has rapidly gained a vast amount of knowledge. She regularly provides Duty Lawyer services in Hervey Bay and appears in the District Court and Supreme Court on complex criminal matters. Virginia undertakes matters funded both privately and by Legal Aid Queensland, ensuring that all clients have access to quality legal representation. Her passion for justice and meticulous attention to detail make her a valuable asset to the Geldard Sherrington Lawyers’ team and the clients she represents.

Jess Toomey is an aspiring law graduate, set to be admitted in August 2024. A graduate of Deakin University, Jess completed a double degree in Bachelor of Laws and Commerce, showcasing her dedication to both legal practice and business acumen. She is currently furthering her legal expertise through the Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice at The College of Law.

Jess' legal journey commenced during her tertiary studies when she undertook a placement at Geldard Sherrington Lawyers. Working closely with the firm's partners, Jess gained invaluable experience in family law matters, an area she is particularly passionate about. Her commitment to the legal field was also evident through her involvement in the Deakin Commerce Society, where she served on the committee, fostering a community of like-minded individuals.

While Jess enjoys exploring all facets of law, her interest particularly lies in complex family law issues and domestic violence matters. Her dedication to these areas extends beyond her professional endeavours. Jess is an active volunteer at the Peninsula Community Legal Centre, where she offers her legal expertise to assist with various matters. Additionally, she is involved with the Emerge Women's Network, providing support to women and children impacted by domestic and family violence. At Geldard Sherrington Lawyers, Jess is committed to delivering compassionate and effective legal solutions, drawing on her academic background and hands-on experience. Her passion for law and her community-focused approach make her a valuable asset to our team and the clients we serve.