Hall & Wilcox maintains a strong disputes presence across Australia. Practice head Mark Petrucco is widely respected for insolvency and financial services litigation, while chief executive partner Graydon Dowd continues to be sought after for complex commercial disputes. Kathryn Howard is highlighted as a ‘first-class lawyer and excellent strategist’, and David Dickens is commended as ’highly intelligent, diligent and careful’. Penelope Ford brings significant expertise in natural resources and projects disputes. Recent changes include the arrival of Scott Harris from Hogan Lovells in April 2025 and the departure of Tom McMahon in January 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Approachable and responsive. ’
- ‘David Dickens - Highly intelligent, diligent and careful. He understands his client's case and objectives in both detail and the big picture. He is highly sought after.’
- '‘The firm provides excellent service with both attention to detail and an eye upon strategic objectives. I find them a pleasure to work with at all times. They have a collaborative approach to litigation, a deep understanding of the issues, evidence and practical matters necessary to achieve a successful outcome at trial or on appeal.’
- 'Graydon Dowd is a very client-centric operator, focused on sensible outcomes. Very hands-on so has stood out from many other operators.'
- ‘Kathryn Howard stands out because, unlike so many instructing solicitors, she takes the time to really understand the matter. She always adds considerable value. She is a first-class lawyer and an excellent strategist.’
- ‘What makes this practice unique is Kathryn Howard. She is a truly outstanding solicitor.’
Key clients
- Westpac
- PwC
- Mitsubishi
- Sircel Ltd
- Ericsson Australia
- Isuzu
- Nutrien Ag Solutions Ltd
- Australian Unity
- Head, Transport for Victoria
- Vanguard Investments Australia Limited
Work highlights
Acted for the former managing director and chief casino officer of The Star Casino in Sydney in relation to a high-profile Commission of Inquiry into the affairs of the casino and subsequent Federal Court of Australia proceeding commenced by ASIC.
Acted on behalf of Quarry Street in appeals to the NSW Court of Appeal and High Court of Australia concerning the legality of a Minister’s decision to grant an Aboriginal land claim under section 36 of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (NSW).
Acted on behalf of Vanguard throughout 2024 in a major ‘greenwashing’ civil penalty proceeding commenced by the ASIC in the Federal Court of Australia.
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Mark Petrucco
Other key lawyers
Graydon Dowd; Kathryn Howard; David Dickens; Penelope Ford