Special Counsel

Why join us?

Ready to take the next step in your insurance litigation career?

DWF is seeking an experienced Senior Associate/Special Counsel to join our growing Insurance team in Melbourne. You'll work closely with a Partner on a diverse and high-quality portfolio of insured property damage matters , with a strong emphasis on building and construction disputes and coverage advice .

This is an exciting opportunity to work on complex matters, engage directly with insurer clients (including London markets), and play a meaningful role in the continued growth of our practice.

In this hands-on and rewarding role, you will be trusted with significant responsibility and client exposure from day one.

• Run the day-to-day conduct of complex litigated and unlitigated insurance matters
• Deliver clear, commercial coverage and defence advice to insurers, including local and London Underwriters
• Draft and review high-quality pleadings, affidavits, advices and settlement agreements
• Appear in court, mediations and settlement conferences, and instruct counsel for hearings and trials
• Build strong relationships with insurer and insured clients, brokers, counsel, experts and other stakeholders
• Analyse and prepare evidence and persuasive written submissions
• Actively contribute to business development initiatives and client growth
• Mentor and support junior lawyers, helping shape the next generation of talent
• Stay at the forefront of legal, regulatory and industry developments
• Work in line with DWF policies, procedures and confidentiality standards

Responsibilities

• Run the day-to-day conduct of complex litigated and unlitigated insurance matters
• Deliver clear, commercial coverage and defence advice to insurers, including local and London Underwriters
• Draft and review high-quality pleadings, affidavits, advices and settlement agreements
• Appear in court, mediations and settlement conferences, and instruct counsel for hearings and trials
• Build strong relationships with insurer and insured clients, brokers, counsel, experts and other stakeholders
• Analyse and prepare evidence and persuasive written submissions
• Actively contribute to business development initiatives and client growth
• Mentor and support junior lawyers, helping shape the next generation of talent
• Stay at the forefront of legal, regulatory and industry developments
• Work in line with DWF policies, procedures and confidentiality standards

What will help you succeed in this role?

You're a confident, motivated Senior Associate who enjoys complex work and taking ownership of matters.

You will bring:

• 4+ years' post-admission experience in insurance litigation
  (including construction claims, property damage and coverage disputes)
• Essential experience in insurance liability matters
• Strong practice management skills and attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication and advocacy skills
• Confidence appearing in court and instructing counsel
• A collaborative, proactive approach and genuine enthusiasm for high-quality work
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• High standards of professionalism and ethics
• The ability to work independently while thriving in a team environment
• iManage or similar document management systems
• Time recording software
• Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint and Excel
• A willingness to embrace AI tools and emerging legal technology

What we offer

At DWF, we deeply appreciate the significance of offering a comprehensive rewards package that extends beyond a basic salary. Our commitment is to ensure that each member of our team not only feels valued but is also duly rewarded throughout their tenure with us. Upon joining our organisation, you will have the opportunity to select from a diverse array of benefits, allowing you to carefully tailor a package that perfectly aligns with your individual needs and those of your family. In addition to our standard benefits, we offer a wide range of flexible benefits and robust well-being programs.

Our recruitment process upholds the highest standards of fairness and engagement. It includes comprehensive interviews and, at times, a written assessment, an assessment day, or presentation. We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support.

About us

DWF is a global legal business providing Complex, Managed and Connected Services. We empower people to be themselves within an inclusive and supportive environment, enabling everyone to achieve their full potential in line with their abilities and career aspirations.