A recent decision of the High Court of Australia fired a merciless arrow through the hearts of victims/survivors of institutional child sexual abuse throughout Australia.

Read the article and take action >>> here.

At Judy Courtin Legal we work tirelessly for justice and accountability for victims of institutional child abuse.

 

Dr Judy Courtin
B.App.Sci; LLB (Hons);
Dip.Legal Practice;
PhD (Law)

Judy Courtin commenced legal practice later in life. Following the disclosure by one of her nephews about the sex crimes committed against him as an 11-year-old child by Christian brothers, Judy continues to devote her life to this area of work.

In 2015, Judy completed her PhD into sexual assault and the Catholic Church and whether victims were finding justice. Three years later she commenced her legal practice representing victims of institutional abuse.

This practice has grown such that Judy now works with about 25 wonderful people who are all personally committed to fighting for justice for victims of institutional child abuse.

Judy’s philosophy means that her practice is client focussed. As well as entering a legal process, our clients are encouraged to think about what is important for them – that is, what does justice or accountability look like? Further, what it is about a legal claim that might be concerning? This wholistic approach provides additional and valuable support for our clients.

Our clients join a legal team consisting of a lawyer, a paralegal, a support person and an administrative person.

Watch Judy’s presentation to Monash University’s Caston Law Centre in 2013 here.

 

Recent Media

Go to Media to read these and all media articles.

2025

>> “Peter Cotton tried to raise the alarm about an abusive priest – he’s worried the church hasn’t learnt from it.”
ABC News 7 April 2025

>> “Paedophile priest Gerald Ridsdale dies at 90.”
ABC Listen 17 February 2025

>> “Padeophile priest Gerald Ridsdale dies at 90, survivors urged to seek help.”
ABC News 17 February 2025

2024

>> “High Court decision abandons the most vulnerable members of our society.” Judy Courtin
WIN News
14 November 2024

>> High Court ruling that Catholic Church not ‘vicariously liable’ for priest’s abuse sparks call for law reform.
The Age 16 November 2024

>> High Court rules Catholic Church not liable for child abuse by priest.
ABC iView
20 November 2024

>> “Whole new round of grave abuse’: Petition against High Court abuse decision
Ballarat Courier
1 December 2024

 

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Judy Courtin Legal acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong / Boon Wurrung peoples of the Kulin, Traditional Owners of the land on which we work, and extend this acknowledgement to Traditional Owners throughout Australia. We respect their deep and continuing connection to these lands and waters, and recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country.