SULLIVAN BRAHAM - Key Persons


Imogen Downie

Job Titles:
  • Lawyer
Imogen was born and raised in Sale and completed her studies at Deakin University in 2018. Whilst studying, Imogen volunteered at the Victoria Legal Aid office in Ringwood. Imogen joined Sullivan Braham in 2019 as a trainee lawyer and completed her training period in 2020. Imogen gained a broad range of experience during her traineeship and is currently practising in criminal law, intervention order and child protection matters. With extensive experience in child protection cases, Imogen understands the sensitive nature of these proceedings and she approaches each case with empathy and a deep understanding of the complex dynamics involved, working tirelessly to protect the rights of children and their families. In addition to her work in child protection, Imogen regularly appears as an advocate in the Magistrates' Court in a range of traffic and criminal matters, including pleas of guilty, contest mentions, bail applications and intervention orders. Imogen's dedication to her clients extends beyond the courtroom. She recognises the emotional toll that legal issues can have on individuals and families, and she provides compassionate support and guidance every step of the way. She appreciates that court proceedings can be stressful and that clients need to have access to the best advice so that they can make an informed decision about their matter.

James Sullivan

Job Titles:
  • Principal
James Sullivan is an experienced commercial lawyer. James has been practising in commercial law, litigation and dispute resolution for almost 20 years. As a Law Institute of Victoria accredited specialist in commercial litigation, he has gained a reputation for his exceptional legal expertise and commitment to achieving successful outcomes for his clients. During his career James has worked at international law firms in London and Melbourne, and been admitted to legal practice in England and Wales. Throughout his career, James has been dedicated to providing his clients with exceptional legal advice and representation. He understands the intricacies of complex commercial transactions and has a proven track record of securing favourable outcomes for his clients. His attention to detail, strategic thinking, and strong negotiation skills set him apart as a reliable and trusted legal advisor. James has represented and appeared for both plaintiff and defendant clients in a variety of matters in various courts and tribunals, including the Federal Court of Australia, the Federal Circuit Court of Australia, the Supreme Court of Victoria, the County Court of Victoria, the Magistrates' Court of Victoria and VCAT. James prides himself on delivering personalised service to each client, taking the time to understand their specific needs and crafting tailored strategies to achieve their desired outcomes. James is the only lawyer based in Gippsland to hold the Law Institute of Victoria specialist accreditation in commercial litigation.

Jennifer Oliver

Job Titles:
  • Senior Associate
  • Senior Associate / Family Law
Jennifer is a highly skilled family lawyer known for her pragmatic approach and being client focused. Recognising that every case is different Jennifer works to guide clients through the process so that each client can feel confident to make the right decision for their own circumstances. Jennifer's approach ensures that clients understand the choices and options that they have to resolve their family law matters. Jennifer is committed to providing practical solutions that prioritise the interests of her clients and their families. Jennifer has experience in negotiating and drafting binding financial agreements both before, during and after relationships. Although Jennifer works hard to resolve matters through agreement, she will vigorously represent her client's interests where litigation becomes necessary and work tirelessly to protect their interests and the well-being of their family.

John Sullivan

Job Titles:
  • Principal
With over 40 years of practice in criminal law, John has developed a reputation for exceptional advocacy skills and a dedication to protecting his clients' legal rights. Throughout his career John has handled a wide range of criminal cases from minor criminal and traffic offences to serious criminal matters such as assault, theft, drug offences and white collar crimes. John's extensive experience allows him to navigate the nuances of the law and develop effective defence strategies tailored to each client's unique circumstances. As an excellent communicator, John ensures that his clients fully understand their rights, the charges they are facing and the potential consequences involved. John explains complex legal concepts in clear and accessible language, empowering his clients to make informed decisions. John conducts a thorough investigation, analyses evidence and interviews witnesses to build the strongest possible defence. John's attention to detail combined with his analytical skills enables him to identify weaknesses in the prosecutions' case and craft compelling arguments in favour of his clients. John has extensive experience appearing for clients in Magistrates' Court, Children's Court and County Court proceedings, including contested criminal proceedings, pleas, bail applications, committal proceedings and appeals. John regularly appears in the Magistrates' and Children's Courts of Sale and Bairnsdale and the County Courts of Bairnsdale and Latrobe Valley. John has instructed counsel in a large number of criminal trials in the County and Supreme Courts and appeals in the Court of Appeal. In the course of his career John has also gained vast experience assisting clients in Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal proceedings. John also has extensive experience as a mediator, including mediating family law property disputes, family provision claims and other commercial disputes. John was recognised by the Law Institute of Victoria as the winner of the Regional Lawyer of the Year Award for 2015.

Kaylah Lake

Job Titles:
  • Lawyer
Kaylah understands that discussing Wills and Estates, whether it's your own or that of a loved one, can be a daunting and emotional experience. Kaylah has a passion for helping you understand all of your Estate planning options so that you can be confident that your assets are going to be distributed in accordance with your wishes in the most practical and effective way possible. No two situations are the same, and with a considered and compassionate approach to every matter, Kaylah will help tailor your Will to you and your circumstances. Kaylah can also advise you in relation to your Powers of Attorney or Medical Treatment Decision Maker documents so that you can be assured that your interests are looked after no matter what happens. Kaylah takes the time to listen to your concerns and your wishes, answer your questions, and guide you through the process of planning for the future. Administering an Estate can seem complicated, but Kaylah takes the guesswork out of what comes next. From Supreme Court applications for a Grant of Probate to the final distribution to beneficiaries, Kaylah can help you navigate your role and duties as an Executor. Kaylah provides clear, understandable guidance about the process of administering an Estate to help you make informed decisions and take the right steps.