Insights from Family Law Leader Professor Patrick Parkinson AM

Inside the Reality of Family Law with Emeritus Professor Patrick Parkinson.

We were privileged to hear Professor Patrick Parkinson AM share his expert insights on family law in a recent conversation with Giles Stapleton on X-Examination.

Professor Parkinson has worked with Watts McCray since 2007 and is one of Australia’s most respected voices in family law. His work has shaped policy, guided legal reforms, and supported communities and families navigating complex legal and personal challenges for decades. His expertise continues to influence the practice of family law across the nation.

During the discussion, Professor Parkinson highlighted several key issues shaping modern family life and family law practice:

  • Supporting parents before and after separation matters just as much as legal outcomes.
  • Family violence is complex and rarely neat or one-dimensional.
  • Children’s voices must be heard thoughtfully, carefully, and in context.
  • Loneliness and social disconnection are reshaping modern family dynamics.
  • Strong communities provide stability, not just legislation.

Watts McCray

Watts McCray Lawyers are proud sponsors of the X-Examination that demystifies laws, lawyers, and legal systems, and that brings the law to life. We are proud to support initiatives that foster education, dialogue, and a deeper understanding of the evolving challenges facing families today. We’re committed to backing conversations that not only advance legal thinking but also strengthen the communities we serve.

This discussion is a timely reminder that family law is more than legislation; it’s about community, care, and the lived experiences of families. Professor Parkinson’s insights offer valuable guidance and perspective for both legal professionals and the wider community.

Click here to watch the full discussion on YouTube.

Contact our Specialist Family Law Team

Do you have a question about family law or relationship law? Contact us today, and a member of our team will get back to you soon.