DiscoverThe Anti-Failure PodcastWhen Compassion Beats Profit: Australia's First Not-For-Profit Family Law Firm
When Compassion Beats Profit: Australia's First Not-For-Profit Family Law Firm

When Compassion Beats Profit: Australia's First Not-For-Profit Family Law Firm

Update: 2025-11-28
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What does it look like when compassion becomes the driving force in an industry built on conflict? Chris sits down with Carolyn Devries, founder of New Way Lawyers, Australia’s first not-for-profit family law firm. Carolyn shares the very real story of walking away from the traditional legal pathway to build a practice that puts people at the centre of every decision.

Carolyn talks about the frustrations that pushed her out of private practice, the early days of building a values driven firm, and the emotional weight of supporting families through separation, divorce and domestic violence. She and Chris explore how she learned to balance heart and commercial clarity, how her team stays grounded while doing difficult work, and why culture matters more than any bonus structure.

This is an intimate and uplifting conversation about purpose, courage and choosing the harder road for the right reasons. If you want to create meaningful change in your own field or simply hear what it sounds like when someone builds a business that genuinely aligns with who they are, Carolyn’s story will stay with you.

Connect with New Way Lawyers

If you or someone you know needs support during separation, divorce or domestic violence, New Way Lawyers offers free and accessible help alongside their legal services.

Website: www.newwaylawyers.com
Learn more about their approach, book an initial consultation or explore their resources.

Lunch With A Lawyer (Free Service):
A private and anonymous Facebook community where you can ask family law questions at no cost and receive guidance from a qualified lawyer every weekday between 12 and 1pm.
Search Lunch With A Lawyer on Facebook to join.

Domestic Violence and Family Law Support:
New Way Lawyers provides free initial consultations through partner organisations and their private domestic violence fund. Visit their website for more details on accessing this service.

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When Compassion Beats Profit: Australia's First Not-For-Profit Family Law Firm

When Compassion Beats Profit: Australia's First Not-For-Profit Family Law Firm

Chris Kendall