Special Counsel, Commercial Litigation

About the role

An established Melbourne law firm is seeking an experienced senior lawyer to develop their own practice and play an integral part in the firm's growth. The firm is open to discussions with Senior Associates, Special Counsel and Partners across commercial practice areas, with particular interest in Property, Funds, Commercial Litigation, Construction and Planning. The firm offers considerable autonomy, access to established systems and administrative support, and a genuine pathway to partnership depending on experience and client relationships.

Key responsibilities

• Establish and expand a client portfolio within your area of specialisation
• Manage complex matters and maintain strong relationships with key clients
• Identify new business opportunities through existing networks and market engagement
• Develop and implement strategies to support practice growth
• Collaborate with lawyers across complementary practice areas to maximise referrals
• Provide strategic, commercially focused legal advice
• Contribute to business development initiatives and the firm's long-term direction
• Support and mentor junior practitioners as the practice expands

Required profile

• Experience at Senior Associate, Special Counsel or Partner level in a commercial legal practice
• Strong technical knowledge and the ability to manage matters independently
• Established professional relationships and a network of potential clients or referral sources
• Proactive approach to business development and relationship management
• Commercial awareness and an entrepreneurial mindset
• An interest in contributing to the development of a growing legal practice; an existing client following is highly regarded, especially for Partner appointments

The firm is represented by JLegal, a specialist legal recruitment and executive search firm, and applications are made through them.