Paula Appelhans
With over 25 years of legal experience spanning five countries, Paula has established herself as a seasoned legal professional, adept at navigating complex legal landscapes. Currently focused on employment and family law matters in Australia, Paula serves a diverse clientele, providing expert guidance to both businesses and individuals.
Paula’s unique background encompasses a wealth of multicultural experiences, which she brings to her Family Law practice. Drawing from her business acumen, she skilfully negotiates family law property matters, offering clients a pointed insight into their cases. In matters concerning children, Paula prioritizes their best interests, leveraging a deep understanding of the complexities involved.
Paula’s professional journey has taken her to Singapore and Vietnam, where she engaged in impactful work beyond legal practice. In Singapore, she collaborated with a local NGO, conducting annual budget reviews and making recommendations to Parliament on gender, healthcare, and geriatric policy. In Vietnam, Paula worked with the Ministry of Health and local NGOs to review and implement recommendations for revising healthcare treatment laws, collaborating with the World Health Organization on the National Rehabilitation Care Plan for Vietnam.
Committed to community service, Paula currently sits on the Board at the Sandybeach Centre Co-Operative Society Limited as a current Director. Paula has previously served as President of the American Women’s Association, an auxiliary of the Royal Children’s Hospital and on the Advisory Board for the Enabled Children’s Initiative of Afghanistan.
In addition to her legal pursuits, Paula is an accomplished academic researcher and writer. Her work includes several chapters on the UN Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Singapore, Laos PDR, and Myanmar. Recently, she authored a children’s book titled ‘Even Dogs Go to Hospital,’ a heartwarming tale inspired by her dog, Milos, designed to help children navigate health crises through the eyes of a child or by following the journey of a beloved pet.
Paula and her family find joy in exploring their local Australian community, enjoying hikes, cafes, and passionately supporting St Kilda AFL, Melbourne Storm (Rugby), Melbourne United (basketball), and, of course, the Kansas City Chiefs. Residing in Australia with her husband and two rescue dogs, Fatso and Mindy, Paula continues to make meaningful contributions to both the legal profession and her community.
