Paul O'Brien

Richard Leahy is the Legal Practitioner Director of Cochrane Leahy Litigation. Richard was a partner in an award winning, national firm, practising in commercial and insurance litigation. Identifying a gap in the Queensland legal market, he has now created his own boutique commercial litigation firm, with an emphasis on expert but commercially pragmatic service for businesses and individuals.

Kathleen is a Partner practising exclusively in Family and Relationship law. Kathleen has extensive experience advising on relocation matters, international disputes, family violence and general parenting issues that arise upon the breakdown of a relationship. Kathleen advises clients on the financial issues arising upon a separation and ensures settlements are finalised as quickly as possible. As an Accredited Specialist (Family Law), as well as a responsive and accomplished practitioner, Ka...

With nearly two decades experience in employment and industrial law, Louise is a trusted advisor to Australian employers, especially when navigating complex workplace challenges. She delivers clear, strategic and commercially focused advice across all stages of the employment life cycle. Louise is deeply experienced in matters arising under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) – from enterprise bargaining and industrial action, to transfer of business, redundancy, interpretation of industrial i...

Andrew acts for principals, contractors, subcontractors, engineers, architects and other consultants across Queensland and nationally. His clients include major JV contractors, resources sector participants and infrastructure delivery entities. He leads the Queensland construction team at Thomsons and is based in Brisbane. Andrew advises on construction and engineering matters from the front end through to complex dispute resolution. He acts in litigation, arbitration, expert determination an...

Michael has 20 years’ experience in construction law and litigation obtained at firms in Australia, London, and in-house at some of Australia’s leading contractors. Michael’s advice is clear, pragmatic and considered. His comprehensive understanding of how major contractors operate, based on his own experience, gives him an appreciation of how legal and commercial risks fit within the bigger picture. He has also been involved in many high profile and complex construction dis...

Kirsten Van Der Wal is a lawyer recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area of Medical Negligence. Kirsten practices law in Brisbane, Australia Best Lawyers has recognized Kirsten Van Der Wal since 2025. The Best Lawyers recognition is based on a peer-review survey of lawyers in the same geographic region and legal practice area. The recognition reflects the professional regard in which Kirsten Van Der Wal is held by other lawyers.

Victor specialises in the preparation and prosecution of patent applications in all areas of biotechnology including immunology, cell therapies, stem cell technologies, antibody technologies, molecular biology, bioinformatics, genetically modified organisms including genetically modified animals and plants, diagnostics and plant innovations. He is experienced in conducting patent oppositions including involvement in oppositions before the European Patent Office and has extensive knowledge in ...

Rachel acts for major employers in infrastructure, government, hospitality, franchising and resources sectors. Her clients include ASX-listed entities, state asset operators and major infrastructure project participants. She is based in Brisbane. Rachel advises on workplace relations litigation, WHS prosecutions, industrial disputes, regulatory compliance, enterprise agreement strategy, and immigration. She manages multi-jurisdictional industrial relations programs for major projects, advises...

Justin Raiteri is a lawyer recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice areas of Leasing Law and Real Property Law. Justin practices law in Brisbane, Australia Best Lawyers has recognized Justin Raiteri since 2021. The Best Lawyers recognition is based on a peer-review survey of lawyers in the same geographic region and legal practice area. The recognition reflects the professional regard in which Justin Raiteri is held by other lawyers.

Philip Vickery is a lawyer recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice areas of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Corporate Law, Franchise Law, Health and Aged Care Law and Mergers and Acquisitions Law. Philip practices law in Brisbane, Australia Best Lawyers has recognized Philip Vickery since 2019. The Best Lawyers recognition is based on a peer-review survey of lawyers in the same geographic region and legal practice area. The recognition reflects the professional regard in which Philip Vicker...