Class action and plaintiff litigation firm Maurice Blackburn is the latest firm to put down roots in Perth. 

The firm intends to open an office in Perth within the coming weeks, and has already appointed a principal in the market, former Slater & Gordon practice group leader Phil Gleeson. “Phil Gleeson has joined Maurice Blackburn as a principal (partner equivalent). He joined sometime in February,” said Geoff Donohue, general manager marketing and communications at Maurice Blackburn. “He has already acquired multiple Perth-based clients, which is impressive given there is no physical office yet.”  

Maurice Blackburn is rumoured to be looking at locations in the southern suburbs of Perth, which according to Donohue is in line with the firm’s objective to have offices reasonably close to clients.
Although  Gleeson is working alone in Perth, Donohue says the firm is in discussions with various people and will be “ramping-up” the office accordingly. “Our business has been on a fairly rapid growth trajectory for the past few years. We have had eyes to the West as part of our growth plans, and are delighted to almost be there – we see a lot of potential in the market,” he said.

Insurance specialist Moray & Agnew announced plans to open a Perth office last week, following the appointment of former Spark Helmore partner Phil Keays. Magic Circle firm Clifford Chance will also open its doors in Perth on 1 May, following a merger with local boutique firm Cochrane Lishman Carson Luscombe (CLCL).

The Maurice Blackburn Perth practice will initially target private consumers in plaintiff injury litigation and will also provide advice on industrial law. Maurice Blackburn's current network of 20 offices extends across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and the ACT. It has about 550 staff, including 30 principals.

Related stories:

Moray & Agnew opens Perth office 9 March 2011

Clifford Chance makes its move on Australia 17 February 2011