It was a full-circle moment for Judge’s Associate Madison Thieme to be standing in front of ‘her boss’ at the Cairns admission sitting last week.
Justice Henry’s Associate was one of seven newly admitted lawyers on 6 December including her partner Ashley Raymond.
Madison proudly shows her certification of admission.
“My admission ceremony stands out in my memory as a truly joyous and unforgettable experience. The day was filled with heartfelt moments, from hearing the personalised speech my mover delivered to the Court to seeing the pride of my family’s faces as they watched me be admitted,” Madison said.
“A standout moment was the smile shared by my family and the presiding Judge, the Honourable Justice Henry – who I’ve had the privilege of working with as his associate this year – when I swore my oath and signed the roll. It was moment that felt both significant and personal.
Madison’s partner Ash was also admitted on the same day.
“The most remarkable part of the ceremony came when the Court adjourned, and the room filled with applause. The atmosphere was uplifting, and it felt surreal to be at the centre of such a significant milestone in my legal career.
“Sharing this moment with my partner Ash, who was also admitted that day, along with my family and friends, made it all the more special. It was a proud and meaningful day; one I’ll always remember.”
Madison also shared her milestone day with another former colleague who was also an Associate to Justice Henry.
“I asked Crown Prosecutor, Hannah McNeale, to move my admission and was privileged that she accepted,” she said.
“I first met Hannah during my university placement at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and later worked alongside her as a legal support officer at the ODPP.
“Her guidance and support during that time left a lasting impression – she was always generous with her time, explaining the complexities of cases and answered all my questions.
“This support continued even after I left the ODPP to become an associate to Justice Henry. Coincidentally, Hannah had also served as an associate to Justice Henry, and she would check in regularly to see how I was progressing.
“Hannah became an invaluable mentor, offering guidance and encouragement I didn’t fully realise I needed at the time. Choosing her to move my admission was a natural decision, and I am incredibly grateful for her support.”
Madison said she did not initially plan for a career in law after high school.
“It wasn’t something I had considered at the time. However, once I began studying and engaging with the course, I quickly realised that this was the right path for me,” she said.
“This feeling was further solidified when I secured a job in the profession. That experience gave me the practical exposure I needed and solidified my passion for the law.
“My future plans involve pursuing a career in criminal defence as a solicitor at a small private defence firm in Cairns.
“I am excited to begin this role, as it will provide me guidance and mentorship to help shape my development as a legal practitioner. In the medium term, I aim to sit the bar exams and undergo the bar practice course as my true passion lies in advocacy.”
Madison said she had “the privilege” of working as an associate to Justice Henry since January 2024, and would continue in this role until 2025.
“Having Justice Henry preside over my admission was an incredibly special moment,” she said.
“It has been an honour to work alongside Justice Henry throughout the year and having him admit me as a legal practitioner felt like a profound full-circle moment. His mentorship and guidance have been instrumental in laying the foundation of my legal career, even in its early stages.
“The lessons and insights I have gained during this time are invaluable, and I will carry them with as I move forward in my legal journey. Concluding the year in this way felt especially fitting and reflects the significant impact my associate experience has had on my professional career. “
Other Cairns admissions before Justice Henry on 6 December were: Alan Clough; Annalisse Troncone; Indianna Saxon; James Dirssa and Connor Healey.
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