Justin Burghardt – Building Broadside: My Journey from Associate to Partner at 27

Over the past year, my career has taken a transformative leap from an Associate at a well-established firm, to a founding partner of Broadside Lawyers. At 27, I’ve embraced the challenges of running a law firm, leading a high-volume litigation practice, and shaping the firm’s culture and growth.

Promoted by Broadside Lawyers 11 February 2025 Profiles
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How did you start down this career path?

My legal career has always been driven by a passion for advocacy and achieving commercial solutions in disputes. Growing up in a small family business in the construction industry, I developed a keen interest in litigation and debt recovery, recognising the significant impact a strategic, well-executed dispute resolution process can have on businesses and individuals. My previous experience allowed me to refine my litigation skills, but the opportunity to build Broadside Lawyers from the ground up was a chance I couldn’t pass up.

What inspires you in your role/industry?

The legal industry, particularly litigation, is often seen as rigid, slow-moving, and burdened by tradition. What inspires me is proving that it doesn’t have to be that way. I thrive on finding ways to challenge outdated processes, push matters forward efficiently, and deliver results without unnecessary delays or costs.

Running my own practice has only reinforced this mindset. Instead of being confined by outdated systems, I’ve had the freedom to build a practice that prioritises commerciality and pragmatism. The thrill of solving complex disputes, cutting through legal noise, and giving clients clear, actionable pathways is what keeps me engaged. Litigation is not just about arguing cases, it’s about strategic thinking, risk management, and knowing when to fight and when to settle. That level of tactical decision-making is what I love most about my work.

What's your approach to customer service that separates you from the rest?

Proactivity and commerciality. Many litigation lawyers focus purely on the legal aspects, but I push my team to always think commercially—what is the most effective and practical way to resolve a dispute? Litigation can be costly, and clients appreciate a lawyer who prioritises outcomes over unnecessary legal battles. I also emphasise responsiveness and accountability. My clients know they can reach me at any time, and I make it a priority to keep them informed every step of the way.

How do you innovate and stay ahead of industry trends?

Staying ahead in this industry isn’t about blindly following trends; it’s about knowing when to break from tradition and when to refine it. That’s what sets Broadside Lawyers apart.

Innovation in litigation isn’t just about adopting new technology, it’s about challenging the way things have always been done.

A key part of this is fostering a mindset of adaptability. Rather than treating litigation as a purely procedural exercise, I encourage my team to think strategically and tailor approaches to each case. This means taking decisive action early, and always considering practical, business-minded resolutions for our clients.

Technology plays a role, but only when it genuinely improves outcomes. I’ve implemented processes that speed up document management and case tracking, allowing us to move disputes forward faster, without getting bogged down in administrative delays. My experience teaching legal technology and innovation at Swinburne University of Technology reinforced the idea that automation should serve a purpose—it should enhance legal practice, not replace critical thinking.

What is the toughest challenge you've faced in your role? How did you overcome it?

Becoming a partner and running a firm at 27 comes with its fair share of challenges, including scepticism from some quarters. I’ve been asked whether I’m too young for this role, whether I can handle the pressure, and whether I’m getting enough sleep. My answer is always the same: I love what I do, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Managing a high-volume litigation practice while also handling the business side of a law firm has been demanding, but I’ve embraced the challenge by staying disciplined, surrounding myself with a strong team, and focusing on constant improvement. The firm’s rapid growth has been a testament to the effectiveness of our approach.

What are some of your goals for the next five years?

Over the next five years, I aim to:

  • Mentor and develop young lawyers to create a strong, future-focused litigation and disputes team.
  • Expand Broadside Lawyers into one of Australia’s go-to firms for litigation and dispute resolution.
  • Continue refining and innovating our processes to deliver even faster, more efficient outcomes for clients.
  • Further my contributions to the legal profession through teaching and industry involvement.
  • Maintain a strong work-life balance—while building a firm is demanding, I also value the relationships and commitments outside of work that keep me grounded. Hopefully, in five years’ time, I am married to the love of my life, and we have one or two children building a beautiful family together.
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