News & Insights

Macpherson Kelley is pleased to announce the appointment of three new Principal Lawyers in its Commercial, Intellectual Property and Family Law practice areas.

Racha Abboud and Rita Khodeir have joined the Commercial team while Suzanne Hallas-Gleeson has joined the Private Clients team focused on Family Law.

All three Principal Lawyers are highly respected in their fields, further strengthening Macpherson Kelley’s reputation for providing quality advice clients can confidently act upon. They are based in Macpherson Kelley’s Sydney office, bringing the number of Principal Lawyers there to 12.

“It’s terrific seeing our Sydney office continue to expand,” NSW Managing Principal Lawyer Greg Peach said. “Racha, Rita and Suzanne are talented lawyers who share our commitment to providing advice that delivers outstanding outcomes to clients.”

CEO Steve Parker said: “Racha, Rita and Suzanne bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the firm that will build on our platform for growth into the future.”

Racha has extensive experience in all areas of corporate and commercial practice, especially franchising where she has acted for national franchisors, master franchisees and franchisees. She is a committee member of the Franchise Council of Australia and was chairperson of its Women in Franchising association.

“The franchise sector is one of Australia’s biggest business sectors,” Racha says. “It has many unique challenges and opportunities and helping clients to navigate them successfully is very satisfying.”

Rita is an Intellectual Property lawyer and registered trade marks attorney focused on developing practical and cost effective strategies that protect clients’ IP.  She is highly skilled in all areas of intellectual property with a strong background in IP litigation and experience managing the trade marks portfolios of large and small companies across a range of industries.

“Intellectual Property can often be a client’s greatest asset. Ensuring they achieve the greatest value from their IP and that it is protected are keys to achieving their business goals.”

Racha and Rita have built significant networks and practices in Greater Western Sydney and are keen to continue serving the region, which is one of Australia’s fastest growing economic areas.

Suzanne joins Macpherson Kelley’s Private Clients team practising in all areas of Family Law. She has more than 25 years’ experience in family law with significant expertise in financial agreements, property settlements, divorce and parenting matters.

Racha and Rita were Senior Associates at Coleman Greig Lawyers while Suzanne was a Partner at Pigott Stinson.

The information contained in this article is general in nature and cannot be relied on as legal advice nor does it create an engagement. Please contact one of our lawyers listed above for advice about your specific situation.