Judge Sarah Bradley graduated from the University of Queensland with an Arts degree in 1976, and two years later, a Bachelor of Laws degree. In 1978, she commenced employment as a Legal Officer in the Prosecution section of the Solicitor-General’s Office, prior to her employment with O’Dwyer and Murphy Solicitors, Mooloolaba. Soon after, Judge Bradley was appointed partner in the firm, and in 1990 commenced her appointment as a part-time member of the Misconduct Tribunals within the Criminal Justice Commission for Queensland. Five years later, Judge Bradley was appointed Stipendiary Magistrate for Rockhampton, which was soon followed by her appointment as Stipendiary Magistrate for Townsville. During her appointments Judge Bradley chaired the Mediation Conferences for the Legal Aid Office, and in March of 1999 was appointed to the District Court bench in Cairns.