Law firm HFW has expanded its Australian insurance operations by appointing two new special counsels. 

Dominic Russell joined from Dentons in September and has several insurance sector clients. He specialises in complex commercial matters including misconduct investigations, white-collar crime and enforcement of contractual restraints of trade.

Phillip Thomas joined from Meridian Lawyers last month. He has more than 10 years of insurance law experience, including in professional indemnity, building and construction, property damage, public liability and policy coverage. He has previously acted for Lloyd’s syndicates.  

HFW global head of insurance and reinsurance Christopher Foster says the pair, based in Sydney, are “experienced practitioners with an impressive track record in litigation. Dominic and Phillip will make a valuable contribution to our global insurance group and our clients.

“They will work with our existing team of experts, which includes 20 partners and more than 60 lawyers located across the firm’s international network.”  

HFW has been rapidly expanding its Australian business, adding 13 partners to its Melbourne, Perth and Sydney teams since the beginning of last financial year.