Deirdre Pennock

Special Counsel

T: +61 (0) 8 9265 6022
F: +61 (0) 8 9265 6099
deirdre.pennock@hbacrawford.com.au

Experience

Deirdre is an insurance law specialist, joining HBA Legal in mid 2019 after 10 years with Sparke Helmore.

Since 2009, Deirdre has advised and represented insurers and their clients on a range of commercial insurance matters, predominantly motor vehicle injury, public liability, and property claims and recoveries.

Deirdre holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Western Australia and a Bachelor of Social Science (Politics and History) from Curtin University.  She is a member of the Australian Insurance Law Association, Women Lawyers of Western Australia and the Law Society of Western Australia.  Deirdre was admitted to practice in February 2010.

Expertise

Deirdre provides timely, commercial advice to clients on the assessment of liability, contribution, quantum and recovery. She advises on the management of litigated and non-litigated claims with a focus on strategies for resolution. She is experienced in managing catastrophic injury claims, including acquired brain and spinal injuries as well as infant claims.

Deirdre regularly attends the District Court. She is experienced in conducting settlement conferences and reaching negotiated outcomes, as well as advocating for clients in chambers.

Deirdre shares her knowledge through mentoring colleagues in the insurance industry and junior legal practitioners.

Why clients like her

Deirdre is approachable, with a pragmatic approach to each matter. She thoroughly analyses evidence and provides advice with an aim of reaching a mediated outcome as quickly as possible.

Deirdre finds that picking up the phone and speaking to clients directly and regularly saves time (therefore lowering fees) and has the value add of sharing invaluable knowledge.   She has excellent relationships with opposing solicitors and counsel, regularly interacting with them as part of day-to-day business.

Deirdre’s clients are assured by her confidence and experience.