Maddocks adds special counsel to public law team

Maddocks has added a seasoned lawyer to its public law team.

Matthew Pearce has joined the firm’s Sydney office as special counsel. He made the move from North Sydney Council, where he was general counsel since 2015. Prior to that, he was legal counsel for New South Wales councils since 2006.

Practicing for more than 18 years in the local government sector, he has extensive experience in planning and environment law, including Land and Environment Court litigation and planning and environment protection and enforcement, the firm said.

Pearce’s practice also covers general commercial law, which includes non-contentious construction work, property law, and workplace relations law.

“Our clients will benefit from Matthew’s experience in both private practice and in-house in local government and his deep understanding of the issues New South Wales councils are currently grappling with,” said Michael Winram, Maddocks partner and head of the firm’s NSW local government team.

In October, Maddocks also expanded its development team with the hire of special counsel Maryam Minai.