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Former federal judge joins DLA Piper
A former justice of the Federal Court of Australia, who retired from the bench in December, will serve as a senior adviser for global law firm DLA Piper, advising on investigations, class actions and inquiries.
Jerome Doraisamy
The Honourable John Middleton AM KC (pictured) — who sat on the bench of the Federal Court for 16 years before retiring late last year — is the newest senior adviser at DLA Piper, joining the global firm’s Melbourne office.
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Mr Middleton will advise large public and private sector clients on investigations, class actions and inquiries.
“When a board of directors needs senior counsel on a major inquiry, John will spearhead that effort,” said DLA Piper Australian managing partner Amber Matthews.
“John’s appointment bolsters our market-leading litigation and regulatory team and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to strategic litigation at a level where few firms compete.”
Mr Middleton added: “I was attracted to DLA Piper for their fearless work on big-ticket litigation, whether that’s acting for a foreign government, listed corporations or government.”
“DLA Piper’s work (including pro bono work) in the Pacific nations is something I would like to become involved in, as part of Australia’s overall commitment in the region.”
“From my years spent on the bench, DLA Piper has been the standout in commercial litigation. Its refreshing approach to clients, alongside global reach, shows an innovative approach to law, which is essential at this time,” he said.
Mr Middleton has been the president of the Australian Competition Tribunal for the past six years and was a part-time commissioner of the Australian Law Reform Commission.
He holds an LLB (Honours) from the University of Melbourne and a bachelor of civil law (Honours) degree from the University of Oxford, and he was appointed Queen’s counsel for Victoria in 1991.
“After decades of distinguished public service, we are thrilled the Honourable John Middleton has chosen DLA Piper for the next chapter of his incredible career. John will be a great asset to our clients on strategic litigation and class action advice,” proclaimed Ms Matthews.
