Hunter-based Lawyer, Marissa Dimarco has established a new boutique law firm in Newcastle, and on the back of a property boom and regional lawyer shortage has created something brand new in the local legal market.
Dimarco Commercial Lawyers will specialise in the mining, commercial, construction, property and not-for-profit sectors, and the new model will see clients able to take advantage of a unique opportunity of a regular in-house counsel.
“I’ve always wanted to do something different, and I can now get to know and understand clients’ businesses and become more involved with allocated time each week or month for example so I can add value and build solid relationships,” Marissa said.
“The market has been changing for some time, from wanting a time fee to a fixed fee structure, and clients are often asking for a retainer arrangement with a lawyer that they can call upon at any time. This is something our new business can offer which is different to other providers.
“I saw a need to create an outcome-driven business where I can value-add and be available to clients. Working closely with clients within their business and knowing the internal drivers behind the decisions that are being made is fundamental to achieving the best business outcome in any negotiation.”
With two decades of legal experience, Marissa has experienced many firsts in her career.
At 29 years old, she became the youngest and first female partner ever appointed to Newcastle-based firm Moray & Agnew Lawyers. In 2018 Marissa set another record by becoming the youngest female on Harness Racing NSW’s Board.
In 2009, Marissa was also the winner in the Hunter Business Chamber’s Young Achiever of the Year Award.
Lawyers are currently in demand nationally and the shortage is even more obvious in regional areas including the Hunter where junior lawyers have travelled to capital cities to work resulting in a shortage of experienced commercial and property lawyers.
There are even 19 local government areas in NSW currently without a single lawyer.
“In the Hunter, which has experienced a massive property boom in the last twelve months, some firms are struggling to keep up without senior legal professionals to help handle the workload,” she said.
“The perception is that lawyers need to go to Sydney or Melbourne to get lucrative and challenging employment and that isn’t true. Right here in the Hunter we have high-level commercial and property legal work because of the Port, mining, and huge property developments as the CBD booms.”
With 19 years of experience in the industry, Alison Garland has joined the team as a Senior Associate at Dimarco Commercial Lawyers.
In her role as a Senior Associate of a Newcastle-based law firm for the past 9 years, Alison led the property team consisting of lawyers and licensed conveyancers.
Alison’s previous work experience has included working for two national based law firms within the
commercial, property and finance division. During her career Alison has also practiced in litigation and employment law.
It is this diverse range of experience and wholistic approach that gives Alison the ability to assist her clients to achieve the very best outcomes.
