Candidate statement
I was admitted to practice in 1993 and have been a Partner at King & Wood Mallesons since 2009. I have a broad practice, having acted for financial institutions, multinational and smaller companies, as well as individuals and SMEs. I specialise in complex disputes and class action matters.
I have nominated for election to the Law Society Council as I am enthusiastic:
1. to help improve Law Society services for all members,
2. to ensure that CPD opportunities are relevant to solicitors' practices,
3. to assist solicitors and firms prepare their practices for technological developments and artificial intelligence,
4. to support the profession in its advocacy on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing regulation, and
5. to support equality in the profession.
I am also a strong supporter of pro bono initiatives, having volunteered at community legal centres over the course of three decades and through pro bono work at my firm.
If elected, I will be able to effect change by promoting and pursuing these priorities. I will also contribute to the Society's activities generally by virtue of my governance experience, my legal and management skills, and my dedication to the role. I welcome the Law Society’s introduction of the Council Skill Framework. My relevant skills and experience include:
• I have been practising in the areas of dispute resolution and litigation for over 25 years, advising clients on matters including directors' duties and risks in the financial and professional services sectors.
• I have been a Partner for over a decade, overseeing the development of solicitors and staff members whilst assisting in the general management and growth of the firm. I have also maintained close connections with solicitors who have left private practice for other parts of the profession or roles within the community. I strongly believe in the various arms of our profession working together to contribute to society.
• I have been a director and volunteer at various stages at community legal centres, including at Marrickville Community Legal Centre and Youth Law Australia.
• I have been a member of the Federal Court class action users' group, helping to represent the views of the profession on existing and emerging class action issues.
• I am comfortable engaging in public advocacy, having provided media commentary on class actions matters during my career.
• Most importantly, I am keen to make a contribution to the Society and I will appropriately prioritise its work if elected.
To ensure we have the skills and diversity of experience we need on Council, I am seeking election with two other lawyers who share my values while bringing different expertise.
To find out more about us, please visit our website at www.councilelections.com.au - where you can also find links to connect with us on Facebook and Linkedin. We welcome your questions and suggestions.
When you receive the invitation to vote by email, please take a moment to vote for:
• Lauren Absalom
• Moira Saville
• Jennifer Wong
If you prefer to vote using the ballot paper when it arrives over the coming days, please vote for the above using the “How to Vote” on our website.
Thank you for all you do to build our profession and support your local community!