Specialist family law firm Delaney Roberts has announced three key promotions across its Newcastle and Sydney offices, effective 3 August 2026. The appointments reflect the firm’s ongoing practice expansion, which now includes a team of 15 solicitors specialising in complex family law, asset division, business structures, and trust distributions.
In Newcastle, Clare McAteer has been elevated to Special Counsel, marking an 11-year progression since joining the firm as a law graduate. Clare is an Accredited Specialist in Family Law and serves as a practice Team Leader. Concurrently, Olivia Shedden has been promoted to Associate Solicitor in Newcastle, advancing internally after starting with the firm during her legal studies.
In the Sydney office, Rhiannan Earl has been promoted to Senior Associate Solicitor. Since opening its Sydney hub in September 2022, Delaney Roberts has expanded its Sydney legal headcount by 300 per cent, with Rhiannan’s elevation strengthening senior advisory capability in that market.
Managing Partner of Delaney Roberts, Anna Roberts noted that internal career progression remains central to maintaining service standards across both regional and metro locations.
“Clare, Rhiannan and Olivia have each made a meaningful contribution to Delaney Roberts, and I am incredibly proud to see them take this next step in their careers,” Anna said.
“These promotions recognise the experience, judgement and commitment they bring to our clients and our team, while also reflecting the strength of the practice we are continuing to build across Newcastle and Sydney. As we continue to grow, it is important to us that we also continue to develop experienced, capable lawyers who understand our clients, our approach and the standard of service we want to provide.
“We have a long history in Newcastle, so it is particularly rewarding to see our team members continue to develop their careers with us here, while at the same time strengthening and growing our Sydney practice.”
IMAGE | Delaney Roberts promotes three legal specialists across Newcastle and Sydney practice hubs