We are pleased to announce that Cherry Au-Yeung, a criminal defence lawyer with our dedicated Brightstone Defence team, has been named a finalist in the Criminal category of the prestigious Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 Awards 2026.
The 30 Under 30 Awards celebrate and highlight Australia’s finest legal professionals aged 30 and under who have achieved remarkable feats over the past year, providing career-elevating recognition for emerging leaders in the profession.
This year’s finalists, announced on 16 December 2025, include more than 288 professionals across 30 competitive categories. Securing a place as a finalist is widely recognised as a significant achievement within the legal industry, reflecting determination, excellence and a meaningful contribution to the advancement of the profession.
Winners will be announced at a gala evening at The Star, Sydney on 12 March 2026.
Jerome Doraisamy, Managing Editor of Lawyers Weekly, congratulated this year’s finalists, stating:
“Congratulations to all of this year’s outstanding finalists. Being recognised as a finalist highlights your achievements and continued growth as a rising leader in Australia’s legal profession. We look forward to celebrating with all of you on the night.”
A Year of Strong Outcomes in Complex Matters
Over the past year, Cherry has worked on a number of serious and technically complex criminal matters, contributing to outcomes that have had a significant impact on her clients’ lives.
In a sexual assault trial, her detailed review of the police brief identified critical evidentiary issues on the first day of hearing. Following these issues being raised, the prosecution withdrew all charges, bringing an end to more than two years of proceedings for the client.
In a complex child sexual offence matter under section 66EA, Cherry assisted in developing the core mitigation strategy and evidentiary material that proved central to the court’s decision. The matter resulted in what is understood to be the lowest recorded sentence for contested charges under that section, with the court accepting extensive evidence of rehabilitation and personal circumstances.
Cherry also contributed to a high-range drink driving matter in which the client faced the risk of losing his career. Through careful preparation of mitigation material and targeted submissions, the court imposed a significantly reduced disqualification period and a modest fine, an outcome that is uncommon in that sentencing category.
These matters reflect her analytical approach to evidence, careful preparation, and steady advocacy in high-pressure environments.
Commitment to Clients and Team
Beyond individual cases, Cherry demonstrates a strong commitment to her clients through a client-centred approach. She has developed a framework to support vulnerable clients, including those with mental health challenges or limited English proficiency, ensuring they understand every stage of their case and feel genuinely heard. Her evidence-driven, early intervention approach to case preparation has also improved efficiency and early discontinuance success rates, while fostering trust and positive client outcomes.
She is equally committed to mentoring junior staff and fostering a collaborative team environment. As with all criminal defence work, outcomes are the result of collective effort, and Cherry’s recognition reflects both her individual contribution and the support of the broader team.
Reflecting on the nomination, Cherry said:
“Winning this award would affirm the purpose behind every late night, every challenge and every client fought for, a reminder that defence work changes lives.”
Brightstone Defence congratulates Cherry on this well-deserved recognition. Her achievement is not only a testament to her hard work and dedication, but also to the strength and collaboration of the firm’s criminal defence team.
We look forward to celebrating alongside Cherry and the other outstanding finalists in March.
Disclaimer: This content is based on real cases and news reports and is intended for general informational purposes only. It has been prepared by the criminal lawyer team and reviewed by Partner lawyer Alex Cao. It is not legal advice, and you should consult a qualified lawyer regarding your specific circumstances.
