The 2014 listing of leading native title barristers details barristers practising within the areas of native title and cultural heritage matters in the Australian legal market who have been identified for their expertise and abilities in the area. It is compiled on the back of feedback from solicitors practising within these areas.
Senior Counsel
Leading
Helen Bowskill SC – Level 24 239 George St, Brisbane
Vance Hughston SC – Sixth Floor Windeyer Chambers, Sydney
Recommended
Greg McIntyre SC – John Toohey Chambers, Perth
Ron Merkel SC – Melbourne Chambers, Melbourne
Ken Pettit SC – Francis Burt Chambers, Perth
Sarah Pritchard SC – Eleven Wentworth Chambers, Sydney
Junior Counsel
Preeminent
Stephen Wright – Francis Burt Chambers, Perth
Leading
Andrew Preston – Jeddart Chambers, Brisbane
David Yarrow – Lonsdale Chambers, Melbourne
Recommended
Joshua Creamer – Griffith Chambers, Brisbane
Gim Del Villar – Murray Gleeson Chambers, Brisbane
Nathan Jarro – Clashfern Chambers, Brisbane
Margaret McLennan – Fullagar Chambers, Brisbane
Susan Phillips – 13th Floor St James Hall, Sydney
John Waters – Sixth Floor Windeyer Chambers, Sydney
Editorial
The 2013 departure of the Australian Native Title bar’s most respected figure, Graham Hiley QC after his judicial appointment to the Northern Territory Supreme Court has left a mix of seasoned veterans and new silk appointees amongst our list of leading Senior Counsel. New silk Helen Bowskill SC is the front runner amongst this group being seen as “the first port of call every time”, “an exceptionally hard worker” and “still good value even though she’s now taken silk”. Vance Hughston was “experienced and considered” while Ken Pettit SC possesses “a brilliantly sharp mind” and “is quick on his feet”.
Amongst Junior Counsel Stephen Wright was noted for his work on behalf of the WA government and “the standout at the bar in WA” while in Queensland Andrew Preston’s work on behalf of the Crown also saw him highly regarded. Robert Carroll “is starting to make a real impact” and David Yarrow “brings a broad background to the table”. Nathan Jarro and Josh Creamer, both of whom possess indigenous heritage, were also noted.