Kritharas was one of 15 new partners announced by Norton Rose in April, but he departed soon after. 

The appointment of Kritharas expands Sparke Helmore's workplace safety and employment law capability to 33 lawyers, including 6 partners.

Kritharas brings with him experience advising on OHS issues, with particular experience advising clients in the construction, property and local government sectors, the firm said.

The boost in capability comes as Australian companies focus on occupational health and safety (OHS) as OHS laws are harmonised nationally.

"It's a great time for Bill to be joining the firm and his arrival expands our offering to clients in the occupational health and safety area just as clients come to grips with the implications of national harmonisation of workplace health and safety laws," said Matthew Smith, head of the Firm's national Workplace Practice Group.