Debbie Gilbert
Family and Estates Client Coordinator
Agribusiness + Family Law + Estate Administration + Estate Disputes
Debbie has a wealth of experience in assisting our lawyers in the efficient conduct of family law and estate administration matters. Debbie is the first port of call for all new clients with family law and estate administration matters, and is adept at answering new client’s queries with her vast experience in both areas of law. Her practical support of clients helps to ensure that they are on the right path from the beginning.
Her priority is always to understand the needs of our clients and to make their legal matters less stressful by providing warm, efficient and professional service. Her experienced, reassuring manner helps put clients at ease during a difficult time. Debbie enjoys the everyday challenges of working in a law firm and within a professional team.
Debbie was born in Goondiwindi, raised her family here and is an invaluable, long-term employee of Fox and Thomas.
Sixty Seconds with Debbie Gilbert
Why did you decide to work in a law firm?
I didn’t, I left school in 1977, sent letters to a couple of offices around town and landed a job at the then local solicitors, FJ Stein & Co. I learned afterwards, that there was some discussion on the golf course between my father and the then proprietor of the firm, Frank Stein and as much as I would like to say I got the job on my own merits, it may have been pre-arranged before I sent the letter!
If you didn’t work in a law firm, what would you be?
No idea to be honest, I’ve always been in a law firm and I really like the daily challenge of the work. I have often thought that this is where I was meant to be.
What brings you the most joy in your job?
It’s never boring, the constant learning and thought processes that the job entails and working with a great, supportive professional team.
What’s the best advice you could give your clients? Seek legal advice before it is too late. People get themselves in all sorts of trouble by digging their heads in the sand and hoping problems will go away. Sadly these days the “Hand shake deal” is no longer sufficient and if it’s not done correctly to start off with, it is bound to end up badly.
What are the downfalls of being a lawyer? Like any office job, not enough fresh air and Vitamin D!
If you could invite three people for dinner, dead or alive who would they be and why? This is a hard one! Perhaps 3 people I have never met before. I find it stimulating having a conversation with someone you have never met and hearing their “story”.