Business of Law

The High Court has been asked to weigh in on whether lawyers need to examine the underlying contracts in a dispute before determining whether a claim or defence is likely to succeed, in a challenge to the dismissal of a negligence suit against a Sydney solicitor.

Jones Day has poached the head of Clayton Utz's construction practice, with the reputable parter to join the US-based firm at a pivotal time for major projects.

MinterEllison has recruited a construction and infrastructure partner with more than 22 years of experience from Pinsent Masons to meet growing client demand for advice on large-scale projects. 

HopgoodGanim has strengthened its leadership by hiring Clayton Utz CFO and COO Graeme Johnson, as the Queensland firm eyes continued growth and high performance.

A Baker McKenzie partner specialising in M&A and private equity has made the jump to Johnson Winter Slattery.

Former silk Norman O’Bryan has pleaded guilty in a criminal case over his role as senior counsel for the Banksia Securities class action.

Colin Biggers Paisley has lured an insurance partner from Clyde & Co who has represented insurers in relation to shareholder class actions and regulatory proceedings. 

Adelaide lawyer Jason Karas is challenging a ruling that he pay $41 million to his former business partner and law firm for what a court found was a secret plan to sell the firm’s Hong Kong-based entity.

A judge has remarked that the counsel fee rate guide is now 13 years out of date and no longer serves its purpose, in a ruling ordering $1.5 million in costs against Golden Eagle Property Group.

A judge has warned barristers against taking an aggressive, confrontational approach to cross-examination, saying there is “very little to be gained” from such questioning.