Tell us about your journey to becoming a partner at W+K

I joined W+K earlier this year after working at a large firm for many years, including over five years in Hong Kong. I really enjoyed my time there and I was given a number of great opportunities, including working in a hybrid role with the People team on a number of projects. When the opportunity arose to build a new practice here at W+K it was something that I was really excited about, so I decided to take the challenge and make the move.

What made you decide to become a lawyer?

I thought it looked fun on TV shows. Turns out it is fun, but nothing like the TV shows.

What do you think is a major issue facing your area of law?

Class actions have long been a risk for clients, but this year we have seen some novel claims filed, including in relation to the high-profile cyber-attacks and concussion in the AFL. Given the nature of the claims, both the composition of the class and the damages claimed, it will be interesting to see how they progress and are ultimately resolved. The willingness to file class actions in areas we have not seen before is something that clients can expect more of, especially with the availability of contingency fee arrangements in Victoria making it easier for actions to be funded. The challenge for us (as defence lawyers) will be how to respond to claims that we have not traditionally been faced with, while at the same time ensuring that they are managed as efficiently as possible for clients, including both the costs and the reputational risks they face as a result.

What’s the best piece of advice (work or personal) you’ve been given?

A senior partner once told me not to be afraid to ask questions when you have an expert on a topic in the room. He said in his experience, people are usually very happy to talk about something they understand, and you might as well ask an expert when you can.

What do you get up to outside of law?

My husband and I have just opened a vintage poster gallery which has kept us busy this year. Travel has always been a big part of our lives and has fuelled the vintage poster obsession!  It’s time to plan some trips – my son has been asking to go to Japan and my husband and I are keen to get back to Europe so maybe Europe via Japan!

Complete this sentence – if I wasn’t a lawyer, I would be…

An actor – at least I’d like to be if I had the talent!