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Our Team

Danielle Zetzer

Principal Lawyer

Danielle Zetzer is a positively disruptive force in Australian family law, known for “doing divorce differently.” As Principal Lawyer and founder of Respect Legal, a boutique family law firm headquartered in Bentleigh, Victoria, Dani leads an all-female team dedicated to achieving outcomes that strengthen families — keeping clients and children out of court whenever possible.

With an Honours law degree from Monash University as a John Monash Scholar, Dani brings a blend of compassion, strength, and no-nonsense practicality to her work. A collaboratively trained lawyer, she specialises in complex parenting and financial matters, offering both legal and emotional support.

Her personal experience as a single mum of three teenagers fuels her deep empathy for clients navigating separation. This insight also shines through in her podcast, Diary of a Divorce Lawyer, where she shares raw, relatable stories and professional wisdom, challenging the norms of family law while empowering listeners with honest, practical advice.

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Mei Ngo

Principal Lawyer

Having practiced exclusively in family law since her admission, Mei is a seasoned family lawyer known for her adept handling of a wide range of family law matters and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community.

Mei’s practice encompasses complex cases, including contentious parenting disputes often marked by serious family violence, mental health issues, sexual abuse, or substance abuse. Mei also excels in negotiating and resolving intricate property disputes involving large asset pools and setting aside financial agreements.

In addition to her proficiency in these areas, Mei has a track record of successfully managing urgent family law applications, spousal and de facto partner maintenance cases, financial agreements, and child support arrangements. Her expertise extends to representing clients in Intervention Order matters at the Magistrates’ Court.

Mei has a commendable history of volunteer work with organizations like the Women’s Legal Service Victoria and Southport Community Legal Service, demonstrating her commitment to positively impacting the legal field.

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Sarah Tuckerman

Senior Lawyer

Sarah Tuckerman is a dedicated family lawyer known for her compassionate approach to guiding clients through the complexities of the family law system. Sarah began her legal journey as a paralegal in family law during her studies at the University of Technology Sydney, where she graduated in 2019 with degrees in Law and Communications. 

Sarah’s practice encompasses a broad spectrum of family law matters, including assisting clients in navigating the intricate processes of separation and divorce and advocating for outcomes that best suit their family’s unique circumstances.

In addition to her legal career, Sarah is a passionate songwriter and performer. This creative pursuit enriches her empathetic approach to client care, allowing her to connect with individuals on a personal level beyond the legal realm.

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Isabelle Leeman

Lawyer

(Currently on maternity leave) 

Isabelle ‘Issy’ found her passion for working in Family Law at Monash Uni when she did placements with community legal centres. Isabelle started at Respect Legal as a paralegal while studying a Bachelor of Arts and Laws at Monash. She became a law graduate with the firm and was admitted to practice in May 2023.

A skilled and compassionate lawyer specialising in matters involving family violence, Intervention Orders, and complex parenting disputes, Issy is able to navigate complex asset structures and explain to clients their entitlements. She is committed to protecting vulnerable clients, navigating high-conflict situations with a steady hand, and advocating for safe, just outcomes.

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Robyn Little

Lawyer

Robyn is a skilled and compassionate family lawyer who assists clients in navigating the complexities of family law with a thoughtful approach. She has experience in parenting and property disputes, guiding individuals through separation, child custody matters, and asset division.

Robyn’s journey in law began in Queensland at Griffith University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Criminology. Initially drawn to criminal law, she discovered her true passion for family law during a university placement, where she had the opportunity to work closely with families and see firsthand the positive impact that compassionate legal guidance can have on people’s lives.

Helping everyday individuals through some of their most challenging personal circumstances inspired her to pursue a career focused on family law and client advocacy.

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Madeline Matthews

Lawyer

With a natural aptitude for family law, Madeline approaches her role with confidence and empathy, consistently going above and beyond to support clients through complex and emotionally challenging circumstances. Madeline is known for her strong work ethic and her ability to fully commit to any task she sets her mind to.

Holding a Bachelor of Laws from Deakin University, Madeline has quickly established herself as a capable and reliable member of the legal team. She has an exceptional ability to absorb new information, adapt to evolving matters, and apply her knowledge in a practical and effective way. Her sharp attention to detail, paired with her clear and thoughtful communication style, allows her to contribute meaningfully to case preparation and client support.

Driven by a strong sense of purpose, Madeline is deeply invested in her professional growth and is passionate about building a long-term career in family law. She takes pride in delivering high-quality work and is committed to achieving positive outcomes for clients through care, determination, and a hands-on approach.

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Maddison Bowne

Lawyer

Maddison joined Respect Legal in April 2025 while undertaking her Practical Legal Training. During this time, she gained valuable exposure to family law and quickly developed a genuine interest in the area, leading her to pursue her legal career with the firm. Following her admission in August 2025, Maddison commenced her role as a Lawyer.

Maddison approaches her work with clarity, care, and a thoughtful attention to detail. She assists clients across a range of family law matters, including parenting arrangements, separation, family violence, and financial disputes, and is committed to providing practical guidance during what are often emotionally complex situations.

Alongside her work at Respect Legal, Maddison has volunteered with the Night Service at the Eastern Community Legal Centre. This experience allowed her to work directly with individuals facing diverse legal issues and deepened her awareness of the challenges many people encounter when seeking legal support. Maddison values clear communication and strives to ensure clients feel supported and informed throughout their legal journey.

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Isabella Cavalin

Lawyer

Isabella is a meticulous and highly motivated legal professional with a strong academic foundation and a deep passion for family law.

A graduate of Deakin University, she has actively contributed to the legal community as a dedicated member of the Deakin Law Students’ Society, where she continuously sought opportunities to broaden her legal knowledge and practical experience.

Isabella joined the team at Respect Legal in Jan 2025 as a Law Grad before being admitted to practice in October 2025 and is a truly outstanding and valued member of the team.

Isabella’s passion for family law was first inspired by one of her lecturers at Deakin, whose dedication to helping families navigate complex legal issues sparked her interest in this compassionate area of practice. She was drawn to the human aspect of the law—the ability to care for, support, and advocate for individuals during some of their most difficult times.

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Bella McVean-Davies

Legal Assistant

Bella is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of International Studies at Deakin University. Her passion for law was sparked during her high school legal studies and further inspired by her family, motivating her to pursue a career in family law.

Bella joined Respect Legal in 2022 and has since become a valued member of the team. She commenced her career with the firm as a receptionist and, through dedication and hard work, progressed through the ranks to become the exceptional Legal Assistant she is today. In this role, Bella provides high-level support to the firm’s lawyers across a range of family law matters, assisting clients with care, professionalism, and empathy during challenging times.

In addition to family law, Bella has developed a growing interest in Wills and Estates and enjoys expanding her knowledge in this area. She is known for her strong communication skills, client-focused approach, and commitment to ensuring every client feels supported and understood.

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Valerie Borovik

Practice Manager

Valerie joined Respect Legal in September 2025 as Practice Manager and has been an invaluable addition to the team from the very beginning. With over 20 years of experience as a lawyer, she brings a depth of legal expertise, alongside exceptional organisational skills and a calm, thoughtful leadership style.

As the first point of contact for initial enquiries, Valerie is often one of the first voices clients connect with at Respect Legal. She is known for her friendly, approachable manner and genuine care for clients, ensuring they feel welcomed, supported, and confident from their very first interaction. Her strong client-focused approach sets the tone for the compassionate service the firm is proud to provide.

Working closely with Dani Zetzer, Valerie plays a key role in the smooth and efficient running of the practice, supporting both the team and clients with insight, care, and professionalism. Valerie joined the firm at exactly the right time, and her presence has had an immediate and lasting impact — arriving when she was needed most and quickly becoming an integral part of the Respect Legal team.

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Holly Waudby

Office Manager

Holly is the welcoming face and backbone of the firm, serving as the Office Manager while also managing aspects of the firm’s accounting and financial operations. She oversees the smooth running of day-to-day activities, ensuring the office operates efficiently while supporting both the legal team and clients with warmth and professionalism.

Her strong accounting expertise and organisational skills ensure accurate financial management, seamless coordination, and a high standard of operational support.

Beyond her financial and managerial responsibilities, Holly is known for her approachable nature and client-focused dedication. She thrives on creating a supportive and welcoming environment, ensuring clients feel valued and the team has everything they need to deliver exceptional service. Through her leadership, efficiency, and passion for helping others.

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Yara Halabi

Creative Director

A London native and dedicated mother of three, Yara joined Respect Legal in 2021, bringing a unique blend of lived experience and professional insight into the complexities of family law. Having been a former client of the firm during her own separation, she developed a strong rapport with Dani, which evolved into a trusted professional collaboration.

As Creative Director, Yara leverages her journey to craft messaging that is both empathetic and impactful, underscoring the profound role that respect, care, and dedication play in family law. Her deep commitment to social justice and advocacy brings a fresh and meaningful perspective to the firm, ensuring that Respect Legal’s brand and values authentically resonate with clients navigating life’s most pivotal transitions. 

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