In a move to strengthen its growing government practice, Wotton Kearney has today welcomed Clare McNamara as a partner in the firm’s Canberra office.

Joining from Clayton Utz, Clare brings more than 25 years of experience advising Commonwealth agencies such as the Departments of Defence, Health and Ageing, Infrastructure, and Treasury. Her diverse expertise in commercial litigation, public law, and high-stakes disputes and inquiries makes her a standout leader in her field.

With a strong track record in managing complex, high-profile cases, Clare is not only an experienced litigator but also a strategic adviser with an in-depth understanding of the unique needs of Commonwealth agencies. Her reputation for consistently delivering outstanding legal results has made her a trusted partner to her clients.

Beyond her professional achievements, Clare’s commitment to her community is aligned with Wotton Kearney’s core values. A volunteer director for Catholic Social Services Australia and the Tuggeranong United Football Club, Clare has also dedicated her time to pro bono work, including advocating for Victims of Crime compensation applications for the Women’s Legal Centre.

Cain Jackson, Managing Partner, Clients & Markets at Wotton Kearney, said Clare’s appointment reinforces the firm’s commitment to delivering high quality legal services to the Commonwealth government.

“Clare’s appointment is highly significant for us in expanding our government legal services offering. Her sector knowledge and extensive experience handling both litigated and unlitigated claims for the Commonwealth will be pivotal in shaping our service offering and the future growth of our government practice.”

Clare has played a crucial role in managing complex liability disputes, coronial inquiries, regulatory investigations, and administrative law challenges, including her significant involvement in the Royal Commissions into Child Abuse and Aged Care.

Commenting on her new role, Clare said, “Wotton Kearney has provided me with an incredible opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking, people-first firm. I’m excited to join the strong government practice and to continue to build the enduring relationships with our Commonwealth clients that will help drive the firm’s vision for the future.”

Clare’s hire follows Wotton Kearney’s appointment to the Whole of Australian Government Legal Services Panel, effective from 1 July 2024, following the firm’s establishment of a dedicated government practice just one year ago.

This milestone is just one in a series of bold moves for Wotton Kearney over the past year, including the introduction of groundbreaking legal AI in May, the opening of its first Asia office in June, and a dynamic rebrand in November.

It’s all part of the firm’s remarkable trajectory since its start in 2002, growing from two partners to 89 and a dynamic force of over 700 professionals across Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.