Class actions brought against broker JLT by local governments are progressing through the NSW and Victorian Supreme Courts, law firm Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan says.

Evidence and discovery of documents processes have been continuing following the separate filing of class actions by the law firm, in Victoria last year and in NSW in late 2018.

Partner Michael Mills says completion of the document exchange processes paves the way for likely court-ordered mediation conferences between the parties and the setting of separate trial dates in each jurisdiction.

“I expect those matters will be listed for trial shortly,” he told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

JLT, which was acquired by Marsh & McLennan early last year, provides insurance services to more than 500 councils across Australia and has highlighted the benefits of the mutual schemes.

But the class actions allege participating councils overpaid compared to premiums that would otherwise have been available in the market.

Mr Mills says there remains “considerable interest” from councils in other states about possible additional class actions.

JLT has previously said there was no merit to the allegations, and it intends to “vigorously” defend the matters. No further company comment was available on the cases.