Melbourne’s top female lawyers: Nanette Rogers, Ruth Shann, Zarah Garde-Wilson and others
There are plenty of women making their mark in Melbourne’s legal circles — and these are the ones to watch in 2022. See the list.
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Melbourne law fraternity is abound with dozens and dozens of female lawyers with decades of experience between them who blazed a trail with their work as solicitors, prosecutors, barristers and senior counsel.
These are just some of the very many Melbourne’s female lawyers who are at the top of their game in 2022.
NANETTE ROGERS, SC
Nanette Rogers is one of Victoria’s most experienced barristers. Ms Rogers, a senior Crown prosecutor has held the reins at many high-profile criminal matters. Ms Rogers recently ran a successful prosecution against murderer Adrian Basham who killed his wife in 2018.
RUTH SHANN, QC
Ruth Shann’s successful courtroom career went up a notch when the fearless criminal barrister earned her silk in 2021. Ms Shann has represented many high profile clients including George Pell and Tony Mokbel.
ZARAH GARDE-WILSON
Zarah Garde-Wilson is one of Melbourne’s most well known criminal lawyers after she acted for persons alleged to have been connected to Melbourne’s Gangland War. However, Ms Garde-Wilson, who was portrayed in TV show Underbelly, is a professional operator who defends many through her own firm.
DIANE HOGAN
Senior Office of Public Prosecutions prosecutor Diane Hogan is well known in Melbourne’s legal circles. Ms Hogan has led many successful prosecutions during her lengthy career.
BELINDA FRANJIC
Barrister Belinda Franjic is highly experienced in indictable crime and has acted in matters involving serious assault, sex offences, homicide, deception, drugs and money laundering. Ms Franjic also has extensive experience in summary matters, including driving and regulatory offences. Belinda has appeared for the defence in the High Court, Supreme Court, County Court and Magistrates’ Court.
GINA LIANO
Before Gina Liano became a household name for her The Real Housewives of Melbourne role she was and remains a highly experienced barrister. Ms Liano, who also appeared on The Celebrity Apprentice Australia, first signed the Bar Roll in 1999.
FRANCESCA HOLMES
Francesca Holmes has practised for more than 20 years and has more than 18 years’ experience in criminal law. Ms Holmes, a prominent prosecutor, has extensive trial experience in the County Court particularly in the area of sexual offences and Commonwealth crime including people smuggling and drug importation. Ms Holmes also has extensive experience in sensitive witness management, having appeared in many civil and criminal cases involving sexual misconduct and fatalities.
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