The boutique size, structure and business philosophy of the firm are evident in the way we work. We combine expert advice of the highest order with a practical and creative approach. All our partners are recognised specialists in their field. Our size gives us great flexibility and speed. Our progressive attitude often leads us to come up with ideas and approaches where others can’t.

Our trade mark, defamation, IT and copyright practices are widely regarded as among the strongest in the country. Many of our partners are regularly named by The Australian Financial Review in its ‘Best Lawyers Australia’ list.

We work in a collegial fashion: our clients are clients of the whole firm.

Our staff enjoy their work and are highly professional. We have a strict no-conflict policy. We don’t believe in Chinese Walls. We believe in avoiding both actual and perceived conflicts. We are responsive to the needs of each of our clients and their matters, working together to share skills, information and ideas to provide a tailored package of services. Because the firm is smaller, so are your costs. You will work directly with our partners who will bring their considerable experience to bear for your benefit. Generally, our clients stick with us for the long term.

BILLING

In delivering our services, we work to ensure that we maintain a solid knowledge of our clients’ industries and markets and their business and governance requirements.

We are mindful of our clients’ commercial priorities and budgeting restraints in both formulating and delivering our advice. We often propose:

  • discounted hourly rates
  • fixed pricing for defined services
  • fee caps based on an agreed scope of work

We do not charge for travel time, incidental photocopying, interstate or long distance telephone calls or catering.

WORKING WITH IN-HOUSE COUNSEL

We are often asked to provide lawyers on secondment to cover for our clients, such as during acquisitions or to help with a leave vacancy. We embrace these opportunities.

Many of our lawyers have come from in-house positions, including from clients of the firm. As a result, we have a deep knowledge of the industries in which our clients operate.

We know that you sometimes need to concentrate on major projects. We can provide as little or as much help as you need – we can undertake research, handle correspondence, review contracts, write board papers, manage general meetings, or just provide a sounding board.