Qualifications and Admissions

• Bachelor of Nursing (Pre-registration) (QUT) 1993
• Graduate Diploma in Nursing (QUT) 1999
• Bachelor of Laws (QUT) 2007
• Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice 2007
• Admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of Queensland in December 2007

Experience

Cindy has a degree in nursing and a post graduate diploma where she majored in midwifery.
She worked as both a Registered Nurse and Midwife until 2008 doing her legal studies part time. She is familiar with hospital complaints and claims processes. She has had firsthand experience of handling adverse obstetric outcomes.

Cindy was employed at WorkCover from February 2008 until August 2010 as a solicitor, managing common law files.  As an In house solicitor, Cindy’s role included:

• managing a file load from start to completion;
• reviewing and analysing preliminary claims material;
• corresponding and directly dealing with Claimants solicitors:
• preparing reasons for rejecting unassessed injuries;
• drafting investigation instructions and  instructions for independent medical examinations;
• deciphering and applying  investigative materials to the facts of each case;
• deciphering and applying medical report information to the facts of each case;
• preparing timely advices in relation to liability and quantum issues;
• managing third party claims;
• liaising with WorkCovers’ insured, at all times, to ensure that they have a full understanding of the issues and
• how the matter is likely to progress;
• participating in informal negotiations and resolving matters informally;
• participating in conferences and resolving matters at this stage; and briefing counsel.

Cindy was expected to and met WorkCovers’ strict timeframes in relation to managing matters in a timely fashion.  She is used to following the Model Litigant Policy.

As an In-house solicitor, Cindy would also regularly visit WorkCovers’ employers to discuss the Common Law and Workplace Health and Safety issues in order to improve their understanding of the law and how it impacts their claims and ultimately, their business. 

Cindy’s background as a Registered Nurse and Midwife also provides her with an understanding of the medical and rehabilitation aspects of personal injury claims. She has an excellent ability to read and absorb medical notes quickly, identify key issues and ask pertinent medical questions.

cindy.badke[at]btlawyers.com.au