Mr Higgins’ new role will see him responsible for overseeing the work of a number of key practice groups across Australia, including class actions, commercial litigation, estate planning and litigation, family law and criminal law.

He joined Slater and Gordon in 2002 and prior to his new appointment held the position of general manager – business and specialised litigation.

Slater and Gordon CEO Hayden Stephens said Mr Higgins brings a wealth of experience to his new role.

“James’ leadership of our business and specialised litigation services group over recent years is proof of his wide-ranging skills, from his technical application of the law to building a collegiate and successful practice group,” Mr Stephens said.

“The growth of new practice areas, such as estate litigation and criminal law, is testament to his commitment to explore new opportunities and to expand the services we offer to everyday people in areas of consumer and general law.”

Mr Higgins said he is looking forward to the opportunities his new role will provide.

“In the 14 years I have worked at Slater and Gordon, I have been privileged to work in various areas of the firm – from asbestos litigation to class actions – alongside some of the best lawyers in the country,” he said.

“Our general law division has gone from strength to strength in recent years and my focus will be to work with our legal teams across the country to continue to make these areas of the law accessible to Australians who need them.”