Independent business law firm, Hall & Wilcox, intends to further shake up legal services in Newcastle, following an encouraging first year in the city.

Daniel Stoddart, partner, heads up the Newcastle office and says there is excitement about what the firm can achieve in Newcastle.

“We’re a bit different from most of the other legal firms in this area, and we see that as a strength,” Daniel said.

“We have a young, motivated team which has had an outstanding first year and embraced the firm’s broader direction, which is all about ‘smarter law’.”

Daniel said the ‘smarter law’ mantra drives the firm, which also has offices in Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra and Perth.

“Smarter law is about looking at an issue or problem and asking if there is a smarter way of doing things.”

As a result the firm is willing to try new approaches, such as innovative pricing models.

“Many law firms are clinging to traditional pricing models, which are fast becoming outdated.”

“New pricing models provide an opportunity to better meet client needs, and to provide them more certainty in many cases. My experience is that clients appreciate it when they know you are sharing the risk, and you are in it together.”

Other examples of smarter law in action include: a new web-based application developed by the firm, which helps insurance companies make recoveries from workers compensation claims; being one of only two legal firms to participate in the recent Westpac Blockhack16, exploring new uses for blockchain technology; and being the only legal firm participating in a Vic government initiative to stamp out “unconscious bias” in recruiting.

While most of the firm’s Newcastle growth has been in insurance it anticipates a much stronger presence in commercial and corporate law and property.

“There’s a growing need for commercial and property law in Newcastle and we are well placed to make in-roads into those areas.

“An advantage for us is being able to bring in expertise from across the firm in areas such as taxation, stamp duty, litigation, property, corporate law and more,” Daniel concluded.

Image | Daniel Stoddart