About Us

Our firm provides legal services to all of the industries in the Bundaberg and Wide Bay region including advice on small crop and sugarcane farming, property development, commercial leasing, manufacturing, and construction. We also provide general legal services such as conveyancing, divorce settlements, estate administration, Wills and Powers of Attorney.

We are results driven and client focused

We are locals of Bundaberg and know your industry.

Our firm’s success is based on delivering value to you, our client.

Kelly Dwyer

PRINCIPAL / DIRECTOR

Kelly, born in Bundaberg, joined Charltons Lawyers in 2017 and became a Partner in January 2019. She earned dual degrees in Law and Business (Accounting) from the Queensland University of Technology and was admitted as a solicitor in 2009.

In 2013, Kelly pursued additional studies and obtained a Graduate Diploma in property valuation. This achievement led her to become an Associate member of the Australian Property Institute as a Certified Property Practitioner (Law).

With her extensive knowledge in business and valuation, Kelly is well-equipped to provide clients with comprehensive advice on matters related to business, property, and commercial law. Her areas of expertise include property law and commercial law, where she offers guidance to a diverse range of businesses. She adeptly handles property transactions, business acquisitions and sales, commercial leasing matters, subdivisions, and general property law.

Kelly's commitment to giving back to the community is evident through her involvement as a member of the Management Committees of Regional Business HQ and Edon Place. By dedicating her time and expertise to these organisations, she actively contributes to the growth and development of the local community.

Chris Parker

PRINCIPAL / DIRECTOR

Chris was born in England and emigrated to Australia with his family at a young age. He had the opportunity to live in various states across the country before finally settling in Queensland during his teenage years.

Chris obtained a Bachelor of Laws at Queensland University of Technology and spent a number of years at the Department of Justice and Office of Director of Public Prosecutions before entering private legal practice in 2001.

In 2003, Chris and his wife made Bundaberg their home, where he embarked on a successful partnership at Charltons Lawyers. In 2023, he celebrated two decades as a Partner and currently holds the position of Principal/Director in the firm.

Apart from his professional accomplishments, Chris actively engages in the community. He has served as the President of both his Rotary Club and the Bundaberg Law Association, showcasing his leadership abilities and dedication to making a positive impact. Chris remains a committed supporter of various charitable and sporting groups in Bundaberg, including the North Bundaberg Cricket Club and the Bundaberg Cricket Association. His contributions to these organisations have helped foster a strong sense of community spirit.

In his leisure time, Chris indulges in outdoor pursuits that allow him to connect with nature. Caravanning, four-wheel driving, camping, and fishing are among his favorite activities. These hobbies not only provide him with relaxation and enjoyment but also offer an escape from the demands of his professional life.

Rebecca De Papi

SENIOR ASSOCIATE

Rebecca De Papi is a Senior Associate at Charltons Lawyers and practises in the areas of Wills and Estates, Estates Disputes and Family Law.

In 2012, Rebecca was admitted as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland and High Court of Australia. She has over fifteen years’ experience working in regional legal practice, with a background in all aspects of property law (residential, rural and commercial), family law (property, parenting, divorces, domestic violence proceedings), civil disputes, and wills and estates (including estates disputes).

Rebecca lives in the Childers area where she and her husband currently own and operate a macadamia orchard and sugar cane farm. Rebecca enjoys balancing her work in the office while raising her three young children.

Sarah Protani

ASSOCIATE

Sarah is an Associate Solicitor at Charltons Lawyers and has over 11 years of legal experience in Bundaberg. In 2017, she was admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court and High Court of Australia and practices primarily in the areas of Property and Commercial law, Estate Planning and Deceased Estates.

With her extensive legal experience, Sarah is proficient in providing advice to clients with respect to Estate Planning, Deceased Estates, and property transactions, including Retirement Villages, business acquisitions and sales, leasing matters and general property law. She is passionate about being able to assist and guide her clients through their matters with effective communication and transparency.

Outside of the office, Sarah is actively involved in extracurricular activities for her young children and lives an active lifestyle with her family.

Stephanie Howell

SOLICITOR

Stephanie first came to Australia in 2009 to complete a semester abroad at JCU in Townsville. After only a short time, she quickly realised that Australia was meant to be her forever home. She transferred from her university in New Hampshire, U.S.A. and graduated with a double degree of Environmental Science and Law in 2015. She was admitted as a solicitor in 2016, and recently attained her Australian Citizenship in April of 2023.

In 2021, Stephanie began working as a qualified solicitor in Childers, Queensland. Although she has only practiced law for a short time, she prides herself on the ability to connect with the clients and ensure they are provided with confidence and knowledge every step of the way. Her strengths lie in her understanding of the law and her ability to effectively communicate with her clients.

In 2023, Stephanie reached a new milestone in her legal career by becoming part of the team at Charltons Lawyers, where she continues to make a positive impact on the lives of her clients and contributes to the pursuit of justice and environmental protection.