Our People

Andrew Halphen - B.A., L.L.B (Hons)

Andrew has worked in Criminal law since 2006 after completing his articles at Corrs Chambers Westgarth.

He completed a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Law with Honours from Monash University, graduating in 2003.

Andrew has appeared as a Solicitor Advocate in the Magistrates’, County and Supreme Courts of Victoria. His practice is a broad one including both legally aided and private clients.

He has worked with Robert Stary and Associates since early 2008.

Andrew’s Reflections:

• First and foremost I enjoy criminal law – whether it be giving a client advice, negotiating with prosecutors or appearing at Court...I really enjoy what I do.
• This job also gives me an opportunity to help people achieve the best possible outcome, no matter whom they are or where they come from. To me that’s what justice really is!

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.