What attracted you to MinterEllison Flex?

I took a sabbatical last year and moved back to Tasmania from Sydney for family reasons. At the time, I was not really sure what my next career move would be. I have worked with MinterEllison (as a client) for many years and really respect the firm. I was impressed that Flex had the foresight to see that being based in Tasmania did not have to limit my options and the team suggested I consider short-term roles back in Sydney and possibly other locations. So far, it is working really well and I commute back to Tassie on a regular basis

What do you most like about working In-House?

I have learnt so much from seeing how decisions are made at the top of large organisations. I have worked for a major bank and a major telco during my career and whilst it can be very stressful, I think am a much more practical lawyer because of those experiences.

I also appreciate being able to work with people with a range of different skill sets and backgrounds. Staying in a law firm or going to the bar does not offer the same exposure.

What are the challenges of working In-House?

The legal function will always be a cost centre and the C suite in a major corporation will always want to push and challenge its lawyers.

Do you have a view on any emerging trends in your area of practice?

I am a Dispute Resolution lawyer. Technology is changing litigation, regulatory responses and any significant investigation. The volume of documents that have to be reviewed these days has absolutely exploded because of the way people use email. Technology assisted review and Legal Process Outsourcing (LPOs) have already taken off and will continue to do so because traditional linear reviews are now time and cost prohibitive

Fun fact about you?

I am a graphic designer in my spare time and sell my stationery through a US company, primarily online. It is great to have a hobby that I love to fill my time when I am having a break from the law.