PAULA CHATFIELD HAS over TWENTY-FIVE YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AS A LAWYER. SHE HAS WORKED ACROSS A MYRIAD OF SECTORS, FROM TOP TIER LEGAL FIRMS THROUGH TO PRIVATE PRACTICE AND IN-HOUSE WORK AT A MAJOR PUBLIC MELBOURNE HOSPITAL.

Paula graduated from Monash University in 1987 with a Double Degree in Arts and Law. She was admitted to practice as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of Victoria in 1990. 

Paula trained in a top tier Melbourne legal firm from 1989 to 1992 where she honed her litigation skills and training.  Following the birth of her first child of four, she worked with a sole practitioner for many years, where she further developed her legal skills and understanding of client needs and expectations. 

Later she worked at a well-known mid-tier law firm as a litigator on a part-time basis before moving to her position as Legal Counsel at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne. In this role she advised the Executive, the Chief Medical Officer and her staff, the Director of Mental Health and the psychiatrists as well a myriad of other staff in clinical and administrative roles.

In her role at St Vincent’s Paula advised on many areas of law with short notice and on urgent matters that involved patient welfare.  Paula always took measures to ensure that her advice was of a practical and ethical nature so that the hospital's and the patient’s best interests were protected; and that clinicians were well equipped in dealing with the unexpected and often complex legal disputes patients brought with them.

Paula's experience and knowledge gained in public health through working in a dynamic metropolitan hospital environment has given her valuable insight into the intersection between health and law. Through these experiences, Paula has developed an astute awareness for, and appreciation of, legal matters related to aging, the elderly, the vulnerability of elders, the abuse that can occur, death, inquests, mental health and the distress these situations can create for families. In response to these difficult situations, a time of vulnerability for clients, Paula has developed effective strategies to offer compassionate services to best resolve legal disputes.

Her interests include creative writing, swimming, and yoga, which she fits in between spending time with her family with four children.