The Williamson and Associates founder praises lawyers as hardworking people
Jennifer Williamson could have become a ski instructor or a Qantas air hostess. But in law, she found the career that would give her financial freedom and independence – while getting enough sleep.
In this interview with Australasian Lawyer, the principal and founder of Brisbane firm Williamson and Associates shares the most memorable moment of her career to date and highlights lawyers as hard workers.
What made you choose a career in law, and what’s your favourite part of the job?
After I completed senior, my choices included ski instructor, air hostess long haul with Qantas, and studying law. I chose law because being a ski instructor would not give me financial freedom, and air hostesses work through the night and I would be sleep-deprived. I chose law being a sustainable occupation that would provide financial freedom and independence.
My favourite part [of the job] is working with my team.
What in your opinion has been the most memorable event of your career to date?
Being granted the Commission of Notary Public.
What in your opinion was the most important thing you got involved in over the past year?
I have joined with Australian Health Humanitarian Aid (AHHA), a volunteer group, for their 2026 field trip to Cambodia. A team of dentists and eye surgery doctors fly into Phnom Penh and provide services for children in Cambodia. My role will be as a logistics coordinator.
What’s one misconception you think people have about lawyers, and how would you correct that misconception?
Most of the lawyers who I see attend seminars are very hardworking. Advertising generally depicts smart-looking, handsome men and women as lawyers. That might be true of high-flying individuals in any profession. For most lawyers, their work and their dedication is not glamourous.
What challenges are particularly pressing in the country’s legal industry?
AI. The uncertainty of the extent it can and will be used.
What are your thoughts on the current state of the rule of law worldwide?
Living in a democratic society with voting rights is what we have learned to live with in Australia. World peace is a utopia that has not been achieved. I personally believe humans will destroy their world in the future. Humans have not inhabited the world as long as many animals that have survived fire, flood, drought and famine. Humans are driven by survival skills but their bodies cannot withstand chemicals and nuclear war.
What are you looking forward to most in the coming year?
Helping as many people as I can.
If you could relive one day in your life, which day would it be and why?
The day in Disneyland when I was in my 20s and the day I went to Versailles. Both were magical.
