Belinda Michalk
National Practice Group LeaderAbout Belinda
Belinda is an experienced litigator with an extensive background defending claims arising out of personal injury and fatalities, property damage, contractual liabilities and intentional torts for governments, insurers and self-insureds.
She sits on Sparke Helmore's Board and also on the firm’s Diversity Committee.
What she does
Belinda acts in a range of public liability and property damage claims. She acts in general liability claims for catastrophic and/or fatal injuries, including multimillion dollar multi-party claims involving government agencies. Belinda also acts in professional indemnity claims and provides advice to clients on insurance policies, litigation strategy and the application of contracts and statutes.
She has advised on and defended intentional tort claims arising from alleged assaults, wrongful imprisonment and malicious prosecutions.
Belinda approaches matters strategically and always considers alternative dispute resolution options for settlement and loss mitigation.
Who she works with
Belinda works with national and international insurers, self-insured entities and government agencies.
What her clients say
Listed: Best Lawyers in Australia (Insurance Law) - 2019
Finalist: Partner of the Year, Lawyers Weekly Women in Law Awards 2017
Listed: Recommended for Commercial Insurance - The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2018
Listed: Recommended Leading Public & Product Liability Lawyer (Defendant) WA - Doyle's Guide 2017
Listed: Leading Public Liability Lawyer (Defendant) - Perth - Doyle's Guide 2015
Qualifications
Belinda has a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws degree from Macquarie University.
Life before Sparkes
Belinda began her career at the Crown Solicitor's Office bringing claims against numerous government agencies, before moving to London where she worked at, among other firms, McGrigor Donald. She then returned to Australia and joined Sparke Helmore in 2002.
Life outside of Sparkes
Belinda loves playing AFL, soccer and touch football. If she's not doing something sports related, she'll be travelling with friends, enjoying the outdoors or perched on a stool at an inner-city bar.