Thomson Geer’s national media law team specialises in defamation and a broad range of media disputes, from claims of misleading or deceptive conduct and breach of confidence to cases involving contempt, FOI, copyright, and protections for journalists. The team is co-led by Justin Quill, a leading media law advisor on pre-publication issues and vilification claims, and John-Paul Cashen, recognised for his expertise in privilege, FOI, and journalist source protection cases - both of whom are based in Melbourne - alongside Sydney-based Marlia Saunders, a skilled litigator. Sophie Meixner supports the team, drawing on her background in journalism. The practice was further bolstered by the addition of Joel Parsons, who joined the team from Clayton Utz in June 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Justin Quill, John-Paul Cashen, and Marlia Saunders are knowledgeable and strategic in their approach to media disputes.’
Key clients
- Network Ten Pty Limited – Paramount
- Nine Network Australia Pty Limited – Channel Nine
Work highlights
Acted for television broadcaster Network Ten (owned by US entertainment giant Paramount) in its successful defence of a defamation action brought by former Liberal Party staffer Bruce Lehrmann.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Sophie Meixner
Joel Parsons
Practice head
Justin Quill; John-Paul Cashen; Marlia Saunders
Other key lawyers
Samantha McGeoch; Isabelle Gwinner; Sophie Meixner; Joel Parsons