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!

Bridget Coath - B.A., L.L.B.

Bridget Coath joined the Footscray Office of Robert Stary & Associates in 2008. During her time with Robert Stary & Associates, Bridget has looked after a range of clients – from a group of young political protesters charged with riot, to a man charged with human slavery offences. Bridget appears frequently in both the Magistrates’ Court and the Children’s Court and has also appeared in the County and Supreme Court.

Prior to joining Robert Stary & Associates, Bridget worked at the Footscray Community Legal Centre, practicing in various types of law, with a particular focus on working with an African community in Footscray.

Bridget completed her Bachelor of Laws and a degree in Media Studies. Through her academic work she developed an interest in how the media and justice intersect in criminal law – an interest that her work with Robert Stary & Associates has allowed her to develop.

Bridget is a member of the Law Institute of Victoria Criminal Law Section. She has a particular interest in the Magistrates’ Court Diversion Program and the Children’s Court.

Bridget’s reflections:

• I love that our work as criminal lawyers is all about people. It allows us to help and support people through a very difficult time in their lives, working with them and their families to achieve the best outcome for their case.
• My favourite part of my work is seeing clients use their criminal charges as ‘wake up call’ and accepting our help and referrals to get on top of the issues which have brought about the criminal charges.
• I believe that passionate, attentive work by experienced criminal lawyers can make a dramatic difference to the outcome in a case and ensure clients feel a sense of empowerment.