Dispute Resolution

Johnson Winter Slattery operates an independent team, offering public and private sector clients nationwide coverage of contentious corporate matters. It also maintains a close focus on competition, construction, energy and resources, insolvency and regulatory issues. It is prominent on large-scale class action mandates, particularly those involving third-party funders, acting for both applicants and defendants. The team is further noted for its handling of matters involving questions of directors' and officers' liability. The firm is valued for its ability to draw upon the resources of the wider firm.

"Its differentiators derive from a clear and unwavering focus on outcomes, being able to listen and providing exceptional service."

"A fantastic team providing excellent service, technical expertise and commitment to our work. It was a pleasure working with JWS."

"The team is really excellent, good at what it does and a real pleasure to work with."

Johnson Winter Slattery defended Qantas in class action proceedings involving claims for breach of contract, misleading conduct and other alleged consumer law breaches regarding 'flight credits' that were issued during the Covid-19 pandemic, instead of refunds.

Johnson Winter Slattery filed proceedings on behalf of a taxpayer in the Federal Court of Australia in a class action against the State of Victoria in respect of a constitutional challenge to foreign purchaser surcharge duty and absentee owner land tax surcharge.

Paul Reidy, co-head of the disputes team, is particularly well-known for his management of class action mandates and representation of individual executives facing regulatory investigation or prosecution. He is based in the Sydney office.

Robert Johnston stands out for his substantial involvement in Superior Court litigation, much of which is prominent class action work conducted in the Federal Court and New South Wales Supreme Court. "Rob Johnston is able to succinctly and clearly put it into context what is happening at any point in time and keep us in loop."

Frances Dreyer is based in Johnson Winter Slattery's Sydney office and is regularly mandated on litigation matters of considerable scale, with a particular strength in class action disputes across a range of industry sectors. "Frances is very polished, very intelligent and very commercial." "She is an excellent tactical lawyer and collaborative." "A rising star with an impeccable ethical radar matched by a high intellect and good judgement."