
Samantha Chai
Hi, I’m Samantha.
I’m a North Lakes family lawyer working with the Best Wilson Buckley team.
I fell in love with family law whilst volunteering at the Women’s Legal Service in Queensland during my university years and have worked exclusively in this area since 2017, and with BWB since 2018.
Having worked with many senior practitioners in a paralegal capacity prior to becoming a family lawyer in 2020 has gifted me with a holistic understanding of family law processes. My well-informed approach ensures I can communicate realistic expectations to my clients, and provide stability and reassurance throughout any stage of their unique journey. My experience as a member of a specialist family law team has honed my skills across all areas of family law being property and financial settlements, parenting matters, domestic and family violence, divorce, and surrogacy.
Why family law?
Family law demands a high level of emotional intelligence and the ability to navigate and find a balance between providing emotional support to clients and maintaining a sense of professionalism and realism. Being able to strike this balance and connect with clients to provide support and a sense of security are the driving forces behind my desire to practice in this area.
How do clients describe your approach?
I have been fortunate enough to receive many kind words from clients and colleagues in the family law fraternity over the years that I have been practising. Clients have described my approach as personable, supportive, and professional. There is perhaps no greater compliment though than being trusted by previous clients and receiving direct referrals from their family and friends who find themselves in need of the services of a family lawyer.
Although my focus is always to reach an amicable resolution that avoids costly court litigation wherever possible, I have been complimented by judicial officers and other family lawyers on my drafting and litigation skills. My technical and personable abilities help to ensure the most optimal outcome is achieved for my clients.
Choose Your Location



Max Sutton
Legal Practice Manager & Senior Associate
Nationally Accredited Mediator
Collaborative Lawyer


Neal Wood
Principal Lawyer

Cassie Boland
Senior Associate

Sophie Kannemeyer
Senior Associate
Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
Nationally Accredited Mediator

Denielle Collins
Senior Solicitor

Kiara Bergh
Senior Solicitor

Audrey Akenson
Solicitor

Emma Kalms
Solicitor

Brittany Kelly
Graduate Solicitor

Natalia Hutchison
Law Clerk

Nikki Akins
Law Clerk

Jascinta Perrin
Senior Paralegal

Alissa Tulk
Paralegal

Lailah Flett
Paralegal

Sammie Dorman
Paralegal

Madeline Dowling
Business Manager

Zoe Konecny
Operations Team Leader

Jessica Chapman
Operations Coordinator

Esther Patterson
Accounts Officer

Holly Shadlow
Reception & Administration Support
Rebecca Howe
Reception & Administration Support

Rizza Brosnan
Reception & Administration Support

Cassandra Bate
Receptionist