Danielle Captain-Webb

HomeDanielle Captain-Webb

About

I seek election to the Law Society Council as an industry leader with integrity and commitment to the legal profession. As a Gomeroi and Wiradjuri woman, my leadership is deeply informed by my culture and personal dedication to justice and equity. As a Senior Solicitor with over seven years profession experience and as a Councillor of the Law Society of NSW since my election in October 2021, my tireless efforts to represent and support solicitors across New South Wales have demonstrated my governance experience, advocacy for diversity and inclusion, and commitment to work / life harmony.

I am deeply committed to the NSW legal profession and ensuring that we advance as a Law Society aligned with principles of best practice, innovation, high ethical standards, and with a commitment to social justice and equity. It is this same passion that has led me to undertake a Masters of Social Change Leadership, as part of the Atlantic Fellowship for Social Equity Program.

As the Solicitor Advocate of the Coronial Inquest Unit at Legal Aid NSW, I have experience advocating, representing and leading change in the justice system. I have practised at both Legal Aid NSW and the Public Interest Advocacy Centre - across areas of strategic litigation, social justice, law reform, criminal law and inquests, with most of my practice experience in regional and remote NSW. I have a demonstrated history of implementing change and operationalising strategy - leading the design and implementation of a new team and leading diverse interdisciplinary teams of lawyers.

My professional journey is marked by a dedication to upholding the highest standards within the legal profession. During my tenure on the Law Society Council I have been active in several internal and external committees and boards - reflecting my multifaceted expertise and dedication including the Professional Conduct Committee, Disclosure Committee, Indigenous Issues Committee (Co-Chair), Ethics Committee, and the Council of Law Reporting NSW.

My strategic vision and hands-on approach have been pivotal in advocating the unique challenges faced by solicitors in regional and remote areas. I have advocated for better resources, ensuring that practitioners across the State are well-supported and equipped to meet our professional needs.

My dedication to the Law Society of NSW is evident in my efforts to improve member engagement and support, and my passion for social justice and Indigenous rights is central to my work. My role as an Atlantic Fellow for Social Equity highlights my commitment to advancing Indigenous-led social change initiatives. My fellowship project focuses on reimagining the coronial inquest system for Aboriginal communities, aiming to ensure truth, healing, and justice.

My advocacy extends to addressing structural inequalities within the legal profession and beyond. Through my work on various committees and my involvement in global discussions, I have been at the forefront of driving meaningful change and promoting a more equitable legal system.

My educational background reflects my desire to learn and share what I have learnt. I hold a Bachelor of Law and a Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice from UNSW, a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice, and recently completed an MBAX in Social Impact. These qualifications and experiences equip me with a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the legal and social challenges faced by diverse communities. I seek your support to continue contributing my blend of practical expertise and academic insight, to be a highly effective advocate and leader within the Law Society.

The Law Society has developed a ‘skills framework’ for councillors, and my experience demonstrates that I am well equipped for the role. My deep understanding of legal practice and governance aligns with the framework's emphasis on strategic leadership and ethical oversight. As a previous member of the Professional Conduct and Disclosure Committees, I have demonstrated my ability to uphold and enhance professional standards, ensuring rigorous ethical compliance and transparency. My role as co-chair of the Indigenous Issues Committee showcases my commitment to inclusive leadership and advocacy, addressing critical issues affecting Indigenous solicitors and driving systemic change. I proactively engage with regional and remote solicitors - reflecting my skills in stakeholder management and community engagement, essential for addressing diverse needs and fostering a supportive professional environment. My academic achievements, including my ongoing Masters of Social Change Leadership, further underscore my capacity for strategic thinking and innovation in social justice.

Top Priorities

  1. Social and Emotional Wellbeing for all Solicitors: Recognising the unique and demanding nature of the legal profession and its impact on mental health, I am committed to prioritising the social and emotional wellbeing of all solicitors. I aim to advocate for and support initiatives that promote work / life harmony, and support systems, within the profession.
  2. Enhancing Support for Regional Solicitors: I am committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by solicitors in regional and remote areas. I aim to advocate for tailored support programs and better resources to ensure that all practitioners, regardless of location, have the support we need.
  3. Advancing Indigenous Representation and Rights: Building on my work as co-chair of the Indigenous Issues Committee, I will continue to champion initiatives that enhance the representation and support of Indigenous solicitors, and advocate for greater recognition and action on Indigenous rights within the legal profession.
  4. Strengthening Professional Standards and Transparency: I am dedicated to maintaining the highest ethical standards within the legal profession. I will continue to work on the Committees to ensure rigorous oversight, transparency, and accountability.
  5. Advancing Technological Changes: I recognise the importance of having a legal profession that adapts to and advances with technological developments, including Artificial Intelligence. I will ensure that the Society remains proactive and forward-thinking in this area, providing leadership to our profession and the broader community.

To ensure the Law Society has diverse and expert leadership, I am seeking re-election to Council with 5 other lawyers that I encourage you to support.

When you receive the invitation to vote by email, please take a moment to vote for:

If you chose to vote using the ballot paper, when it arrives over the coming days please vote for the above with reference to this “How to Vote”.

Thank you for all you do to build our profession and support your local community!

www.councilelections.com.au
danielle.captain-webb@councilelections.com.au