OUR TEAM

Stephen John Principal Solicitor

FOUNDER OF STEPHEN JOHN LAWYERS

Stephen John is the founder of Stephen John Lawyers and a highly regarded migration lawyer with extensive experience in Australian immigration and administrative law. He has represented clients before the Department of Home Affairs, the Administrative Review Tribunal, the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, the Federal Court of Australia, and the High Court of Australia. Stephen is recognised for achieving successful outcomes in complex migration matters, including cases before the Tribunal and Federal Court where clients faced significant legal and procedural challenges.

Stephen’s legal qualifications span Pakistan and Australia. He holds a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Laws, and Master of Political Science from the University of Punjab, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Law from the University of Sydney and a Juris Doctor from the University of Technology Sydney. Admitted in Pakistan and New South Wales, he became a registered Australian Migration Agent in 2015 and a solicitor of the High Court of Australia in 2017.

Khalid Naeem Ahmad Solicitor

Juris Doctor, MSC

Khalid Naeem Ahmad brings a diverse academic and professional background to legal practice, combining a Juris Doctor with a master’s degree in science and vast experience in professional and customer care roles. His background has helped shape a practical, analytical and client-focused approach to the law, with a strong emphasis on understanding both the legal issues and the real-world outcomes that matter to clients.

Khalid values clear communication, careful preparation and practical legal solutions that are responsive to each client’s circumstances. His legal interests include Family Law, Property Law, Business Law, Immigration Law and Conveyancing. Khalid also holds an executive membership with the Entomological Society of NSW and is a member of Peace Builders International, reflecting a broader commitment to community engagement.

Deborah Masih Solicitor

Deborah is a lawyer with experience across immigration, family and criminal law. She holds a Bachelor of Public Administration from Charles Darwin University, a Bachelor of Laws Graduate Entry from Victoria University, a Graduate Certificate in Australian Migration Law and Practice from Victoria University, and a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice. Having migrated to Australia in 1969, she brings a personal understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families navigating major life transitions. Her longstanding commitment to helping people informs her practical, compassionate and client-focused approach to legal practice. Outside the law, she enjoys reading, cross stitch and quilting, pursuits that reflect her patience, attention to detail and dedication to careful, thoughtful work for every client she assists professionally.

Mehmood A. Chadhar Lead Solicitor

Juris Doctor, PhD, NMAS Accredited Mediator

Dr Mehmood A. Chadhar is a solicitor with experience across commercial litigation, employment and migration law, conveyancing, family law and workplace relations. He regularly appears before VCAT, the Administrative Review Tribunal, the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, the Federal Court of Australia, the Fair Work Commission and Magistrates’ Courts. Dr Chadhar brings a practical and client-focused approach to legal practice, assisting individuals and businesses to navigate complex disputes, regulatory processes and transactional matters. His broad litigation and advisory experience is complemented by strong digital marketing expertise, enabling him to support firm growth while maintaining a focus on effective client communication and outcomes. He is committed to clear advice, diligent representation and strategic resolution of legal matters.

Yelda Arman Solicitor

Juris Doctor

Yelda is an Australian solicitor with more than 15 years’ experience in legal research and matters involving human rights, refugee protection and international law. She holds a Master’s degree in International and European Law from the University of Paris and completed her Juris Doctor at the University of Canberra before admission to legal practice by the Supreme Court of Victoria. Yelda brings a client-focused, compassionate and practical approach to her work, assisting clients to navigate legal issues with clarity and confidence. Her areas of practice include immigration and migration law, family law, wills and estates, conveyancing and property law, administrative and tribunal matters, business law, international law and business, personal injury, and medical negligence across diverse client matters.

Bahira Ameer Paralegal

Bahira supports the firm’s lawyers across legal documentation, research, client communication, hearing preparation and attendance, and general administrative matters. She is detail-oriented, reliable and committed to providing practical assistance to the legal team and clients. She currently completing her Bachelor of Law and Commerce at Macquarie University. She contributes articles to a law student review, demonstrating her interest in legal writing, analysis and professional development. Fluent in English, Urdu and Hindi, she assists in culturally aware communication with diverse clients. She also volunteers as a content producer and is committed to continued learning, professional growth and meaningful contribution within the firm.

Shabnam Baig Advocate

Bachelor of Law, M.A, M.Ed

Shabnam Baig serves as Regional Director of ASM Migration Services Pty Ltd. She has a strong multidisciplinary academic background, holding a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education, Master of Education from Allama Iqbal University, Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and Master of Arts in Urdu from Punjab University, Lahore (Pakistan). She is also a practicing advocate before the Lahore District Court and Lahore High Court in Pakistan, with six years’ professional experience, she practises in civil, family, immigration, FIA and criminal law. Shabnam is committed to assisting clients with complex legal issues and pursuing practical, effective outcomes. Her approach is client-focused, diligent and compassionate. Outside her professional practice, she enjoys reading, sports and contributing to community support initiatives through practical assistance and engagement.