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Queensland law firm Mullins has taken a major step in expanding access to justice across the state by unveiling its first-ever pro bono special counsel role.
Hannah McConnachie (pictured) has been appointed as Mullins’ first dedicated pro bono special counsel.
The Queensland-based law firm said the creation of the inaugural role marked a “significant step” in its ongoing commitment to expanding access to justice and strengthening community engagement across the state.
As part of this inaugural role, McConnachie will oversee and coordinate the firm’s pro bono activities, with responsibility for strengthening partnerships with community legal centres, charities, and not-for-profit organisations.
Before joining Mullins, McConnachie held the role of general counsel and company secretary at the Carbon Trust for nearly two years.
Her background spans more than a decade in commercial law, governance, risk and compliance, alongside extensive involvement with charitable and community-based organisations.
Sam McIvor, managing partner at Mullins, expressed that McConnachie’s appointment signalled a defining moment in the firm’s evolving pro bono journey, positioning her to lead a broader and more impactful community legal practice.
“Hannah’s appointment represents a significant milestone in Mullins’ pro bono journey,” McIvor said.
“Under Hannah’s leadership, we will expand the scope and complexity of our existing pro bono practice, strengthen our relationships within the community legal and charitable sectors, and ensure we support vulnerable Queensland communities.
“Hannah is an exceptional lawyer whose values align with our own, and we are proud to welcome her to the firm.”
Speaking about her new role, McConnachie shared her excitement about joining a firm with a deeply embedded culture of community service and outlined her intention to strengthen pro bono partnerships across Queensland.
“Mullins has a genuine, embedded culture of community service that runs through every part of the firm – from its partnerships with community organisations to the way its lawyers approach their work,” McConnachie said.
“I’m thrilled to be joining a firm where pro bono is taken seriously at every level.
“Exacerbated by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, there continues to be a growing need for pro bono legal services. I look forward to connecting with for-purpose organisations and community legal centres across the state and contributing to a pro bono practice that delivers meaningful outcomes for Queenslanders in need.”
