Our People

Duncan Ferguson - BappSc (CompSc), L.L.B. (Hons)

Duncan holds a Bachelor of Applied Science (Computer Science) with Distinction from RMIT and a Bachelor of Laws with First Class Honours from the University of Melbourne. He is a member of the Criminal Law Section of the Law Institute and the Australian Law Alliance.

Duncan joined Robert Stary & Associates in early 2007, having transitioned to criminal law from a successful career in the computer software industry, both in Australia and internationally.

Duncan’s Reflections:

• I was drawn to this area of the law because it provides a rare opportunity to assist people from a range of backgrounds in their search for just outcomes in an unequal contest with the state.
• I am motivated by a desire to provide quality legal representation with the aim of achieving the best possible result for each individual in their particular circumstances. One of the greatest personal rewards arises when a client is happy with the outcome.

Stephannie Simpson - LLB GDLP

Stephannie obtained a Bachelor of Laws from Deakin University, and has since completed a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the Leo Cussen Institute. She was admitted to practice in 2008 and then worked as an associate to a Justice of the Court of Appeal in the Supreme Court of Victoria.

Stephannie relished the opportunity of working for an experienced criminal Judge and has thoroughly enjoyed the transition to working on the other side of the bench.

Stephannie’s Reflections:

• Being a criminal lawyer allows me to advocate for people who have become involved in Australia’s criminal justice system, it means that I can present my client’s position and assist them in getting a fair outcome from a system that can seem daunting and overwhelming.
• It really is a privilege to be a criminal lawyer because it allows me to put into practice my values of access and equality in the eyes of the law.