Hilary Stokes
Special CounselAbout Hilary
Hilary is an experienced litigator who has acted for corporate, private and insured clients in a broad range of commercial disputes, extending to class actions. Hilary’s particular expertise is defending claims made against barristers and solicitors, a specialisation she has developed over more than 15 years.
What she does
At Sparke Helmore, Hilary defends claims made against insured professionals. Practising in all Victorian courts and in federal jurisdictions, Hilary regularly advises in relation to negligence, breach of contract, solicitor’s equitable duties, proportionate liability, the Australian Consumer Law and the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).
Who she works with
Hilary advises barristers, solicitors, and a variety of other insured professionals, together with their insurers. Hilary enjoys working with her colleagues to deliver considered and effective strategies to resolve the claims made against her clients.
Qualifications
Hilary holds a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts from Canterbury University in Christchurch, New Zealand. In addition to being admitted to practise in Australian jurisdictions, Hilary is also admitted in the High Court of New Zealand.
Life before Sparkes
Most recently, Hilary was a Special Counsel in a leading mid-tier firm practising in professional indemnity insurance.
Life outside of Sparkes
Hilary enjoys socialising with friends, cheering on the sporting pursuits of her young children and, with unfortunately less recent success, the Carlton Football Club.