Insurance law firm Gilchrist Connell has promoted special counsel James Duffy to principal, effective January 1, 2023, making him the fourth principal in the firm’s Perth office.
Duffy is widely considered an insurance litigation veteran, having worked with clients in Australia and London to advise national and international insurers and underwriters on claims and disputes.
He also sits as the WA state president of the Australian Professional Indemnity Group and as a board member of WA Aids Council, a not-for-profit organisation which strives to optimise sexual health by reducing stigma and improving access to information. He was recognised by Best Lawyers in 2022 and 2023 in insurance law and by Doyle’s Fuide as a recommended professional indemnity lawyer in Western Australia since 2020.
Duffy has developed a particular expertise in professional indemnity and employment practice liability, which have emerged as key areas of client demand in insurance litigation. Gilchrist Connell noted that employment practice liability has seen a 50% rise in traction across Australia over the last year alone.
Commenting on Duffy’s appointment, managing principal Richard Wood said: “One of the best parts of running a law firm is to see really good people coming through to our senior ranks. James’ promotion is a great example of that. He has long been a vital part of our practice in the important WA market and is a valued team member.”
Perth office head principal Deborah Templeman also noted the excellent timing of Duffy’s appointment. “[Gilchrist Connell’s Perth office] has increased in size by more than a third since 2020 to 35 people. James is very highly regarded by all stakeholders in our market, and we know they will be thrilled to see him in this new role.”
Since joining Gilchrist Connell in 2013, Duffy has presented and written articles on insurance litigation and coverage-related matters, often alongside clients. His appointment is the latest in a series of internal promotions by the firm, which has increased its principal cohort by 28% since January 2021, more than 80% of which were internal promotions.
“We take pride in realising the potential of our people and are committed to nurturing the professional development and promotion of our colleagues,” chief people officer Belinda Cohen said.
