Newcastle’s oldest law firm, Baker Love Lawyers has had three new Solicitors join the team over recent months, increasing its talent pool across several areas of law.

Leah Johnson joined the team in May, bringing her expertise in property and conveyancing, wills and estates, family law and commercial law.

She returns to work after a period of maternity leave, explaining that she’s returning for Baker Love’s strong culture of work-life balance and commitment to allowing solicitors, who are also mothers, to progress in their careers.

“This was an opportunity I could not pass up,” Leah said.

“The role allows me to work part-time as I am surrounded by fellow legal professionals who can ensure the continued carriage of my matters when I am not in the office.”

Leah has been practicing for ten years, having completed her degree at the University of Newcastle. She has worked for firms in Sydney and Newcastle and has also served as a Board member for Newcastle Community Arts Centre, an organisation dedicated to facilitating and showcasing developing creativity in the region.

“What I am most looking forward to is expanding my knowledge by learning from the partners and other senior practitioners in the firm,” Leah said.

“I can continue to serve clients in matters I am well versed in, while also working on a range of matters dealing with subject matter I have not previously encountered.”

George Maggiotto, an experienced probate, estate planning and property Solicitor has also recently joined Baker Love.

“I have known Dean Frith, Baker Love’s Managing Partner for a number of years,” George said.

“When Dean asked if I would be interested in working for the firm part-time, it was an opportunity too good to pass up.”

George began his legal career in 2000 and was a partner at O’Hearn Lawyers (previously known as O’Hearn and Bilinsky Lawyers) for ten years.

He will continue to offer clients his expertise at Baker Love and is enjoying his work within a new team.

“Baker Love offers new challenges and a great workplace culture,” George said.

“I also enjoy the opportunity to assist and mentor some of the younger lawyers at the firm.”

Liam Schofield is another new recruit to the Baker Love Lawyers team, joining in May. Liam graduated from his law degree with first-class honours in 2021 and has since been developing his skills across a number of fields including property, wills and estates and commercial law.

He will continue to focus on these areas at Baker Love as well as expanding his expertise in new areas. Liam was keen to join Baker Love Lawyers given its long history and strong reputation throughout the Hunter. He hopes to be able to learn from the large team of friendly and experienced solicitors to further develop his professional skills and knowledge.

“Overall, I see working at Baker Love Lawyers as an opportunity to develop and progress as a solicitor. In the short term, my primary goal is to learn as much as possible,” Liam said.

“In the future, I would like to be somebody known throughout the community and recognised for my achievements within the profession.”