EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE
Since commencing with Moray & Agnew in 1999, Fiona has dealt with all aspects of workers compensation claims, both statutory claims and common law claims (work injury damages).
Fiona represents the interests of the respondent / defendant in litigation which is the subject of proceedings across multiple jurisdictions, including the Personal Injury Commission, District Court of NSW, Supreme Court of NSW and NSW Court of Appeal. In doing so, Fiona regularly confers with clients in order to identify and achieve realistic outcomes reflecting the goals and priorities of relevant stakeholders.
Extensive experience in managing sensitive matters, particularly claims arising out of psychological injury. Fiona is accustomed to identifying potentially sensitive matters quickly and formulating a strategy to resolve those issues in dispute and, where necessary, minimising the impact upon her client’s public profile.
Fiona regularly presents seminars to insurers, public and private sector employers on all aspects of workers compensation, including legislative changes and recent developments.
In addition to representing the interests of insurers and employers in litigated matters, Fiona is also skilled in alternative dispute resolution and mediation in multiple jurisdictions.
Fiona is well known for her sound management of complex / sensitive claims litigation, particularly claims flowing from psychological and psychiatric injury.
She provides comprehensive advice within short timeframes, after conferring with relevant stakeholders to ensure that all priorities and concerns are properly canvassed.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Examples of significant cases Fiona has handled include:
- Representing the interests of TMF / Allianz for the purposes of an appeal against the decision of the Supreme Court of NSW concerning significant legal matters arising out of an appeal against the decision of a Medical Appeal Panel. [Elaine Johnson v State of New South Wales (NSW Department of Education) & Ors [2019] NSWCA 321].
- Successfully negotiated a settlement before the WCC concerning multiple claims flowing from both psychological and physical injuries the subject of separate proceedings commenced by the applicant worker. Achieved a negotiated settlement which resolved all claims expeditiously on a commercially sensible basis.
- Representing the interests of GIO (Nominal Insurer) for the purposes of a significant legal matter arising out of a claim for work injury damages flowing from a worksite accident in the District Court of New South Wales. The matter resolved at an informal settlement conference for a substantially reduced sum, including a significant reduction in legal costs incurred by the plaintiff.
RECOGNITION
Ranked as a Recommended Lawyer – Workers Compensation Lawyers (Defendant) in NSW by Doyle's Guide 2018.