Paula studied law as a mature aged student after a successful career as a television news journalist, news producer and acting chief of staff for STW Perth, Channel 9.

As a television journalist Paula received several prestigious awards for The Best Television Story.

Paula has worked for the State Government as a Senior Media Advisor, Principal Policy Advisor and Acting Chief of Staff to the Minister for Police and Road Safety.

Paula has worked as a criminal defence lawyer for the Aboriginal Legal Service (WA), Legal Aid WA, and in private practice.

Paula practices exclusively in the area of criminal law and is a strong advocate for her clients.

She has appeared as counsel in the Supreme Court, District Court, Magistrates Court and Children’s Court.

She is a member of the Criminal Lawyers’ Association of WA, Women in Crime Business Group, Western Australian Bar Association.

In her spare time, Paula competes in dressage.

Paula and her husband sponsor a talented young West Australian dressage rider who has moved to the UK, with her horse Dennis DeNiro (not Denuto), to further her training. The young rider’s sights are set on competing in an Olympic Games for Australia.

Paula practises in the following area:

Criminal Law

• Homicide (Murder and Manslaughter)
• Crimes against the person (GBH, unlawful wounding etc)
• Family violence
• Property offences
• Drugs charges
• Fraud
• Traffic
• Restraining orders
• Juvenile justice