Huia Edwards - Associate
Huia graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and a Bachelor of Aboriginal Professional Practice from the University of Newcastle in 2019 before completing her Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice through the College of Law in 2020.
Huia was admitted as a legal practitioner to the Supreme Court and the Rolls of the High Court of Australia in February 2021. She commenced her legal career in Newcastle where she practised exclusively in family law, gaining experience across a broad range of parenting, property and family violence matters.
Committed to her ongoing development, Huia is currently completing a Master of Applied Family Law through the College of Law with an anticipated completion date in 2027.
In December 2024, Huia relocated to Darwin to join the AFL Withnalls Lawyers team and was promoted to Associate in April 2026 in recognition of her expertise and commitment to her clients.
With family roots in New Zealand, Huia spent her childhood between the Hunter Valley in NSW and rural New Zealand. Huia brings strong family values and is passionate about supporting clients through some of life’s most challenging circumstances with professionalism, compassion and clear advice.
James Tighello - Solicitor
Originally from Victoria, James has represented a diverse range of clients and is passionate about supporting families through complex and challenging circumstances. He is committed to achieving high-quality, practical outcomes that serve the best interests of the clients he represents.
James has practised exclusively in family law since admission and has developed a strong understanding of the legislative framework, court processes, and the sensitivities inherent in family law matters. His meticulous attention to detail, combined with a calm and pragmatic approach, enables him to provide clear, reliable advice and effective support to both clients and colleagues.
Outside of work, James enjoys reading, cooking, traveling, and the footy – as a player locally and as a supporter of the Melbourne Dees.
Qualifications:
Bachelor of Laws – Deakin University
Memberships:
Australian-Italian Lawyers Association
Hellenic Australian Lawyers Association
Alvyra Dantu - Associate (admitted in South Africa only)
Alvyra Dantu is an admitted attorney of the High Court of South Africa (2016) with a passion for helping people navigate some of life’s most challenging legal moments. Her experience spans civil litigation, evictions, and family law, including divorce, maintenance, and domestic violence matters, where she is committed to providing clear, practical, and compassionate legal guidance.
After nearly a decade of practising law in South Africa, she relocated to Australia in April 2025 and joined AFL Withnalls Lawyers in the Northern Territory. She is currently working toward admission as a Solicitor in Australia and, as such, is not yet authorised to practise law in Australia. She looks forward to continuing her career once admitted and contributing to a dynamic and evolving legal environment.
She believes that good lawyering is about more than just knowing the law; it’s about listening, understanding, and finding the best path forward for every client.
Teresa Rapp - Legal Support Team Leader
A lifelong Darwin local, Teresa understands the NT’s unique pace and people, bringing a grounded and client-focused approach to her work. Joining AFL Withnalls Lawyers in mid-2025, Teresa works closely with paralegals and junior lawyers to provide guidance, support, and structure within the team. She is also involved in client work across a range of family law matters, ensuring every file is managed with precision and care. Before joining the legal profession, Teresa worked in medical practice management and in the health and wellness industry, where she held various leadership and coaching roles. Teresa is people-focused and committed to building positive workplace cultures.
James King - Paralegal
James, who is originally from Ireland, began working in the legal industry as a Court Registrar in Melbourne, Victoria, specifically assisting victims of crime with gaining financial assistance. James relocated to Darwin from Melbourne in February 2026 and joined the AFL Withnalls team as a Paralegal, working under Associate Huia Edwards.
James is committed to helping clients navigate through difficult times whilst showcasing professionalism. He has shown himself to be a great asset to the Darwin team and a reliable team member. In his spare time, James is an avid reader (preferably non-fiction) and checking out whatever gig is in town.
Sophie Julien - Reception/Admin Assistant
Sophie joined AFL Withnalls in 2026 as a Reception and Administration Assistant. She is the first point of contact for clients and visitors while assisting the team with administrative tasks. Originally from Melbourne, Sophie later moved to the Whitsundays, where she worked in the tourism industry, and has now relocated to Darwin. In her spare time, she enjoys keeping fit through running and yoga.