Member Profiles

Michael commenced his career with the Crown Law Department and moved to Corrs Chambers Westgarth (when it was called Keall Brinsden) in 1988.  Michael left that firm in 1993 to start Hotchkin Hanly with John Hanly. Michael has more than 30 years litigation experience as counsel in a variety of courts (from the Perth Magistrates’ Court to the High Court of Australia), tribunals and arbitrations (including international arbitrations), in all areas of commercial law, specialising in particular in property disputes of all kinds, planning matters (including heritage issues), construction matters, maritime law, trade practices and contractual disputes, and industrial relations (primarily acting for employers). Michael also provides strategic advice on planning and implementing substantial projects, which requires dealing with government at all levels up to State and Federal Ministerial level. Michael is recognised in the 2022 Australian Edition of Best Lawyers, under the category of “Commercial Law”.

Don’t flap around in the water! If you have a legal issue or question – choose the law firm with “The Fish Lawyer”. Engaging an expert saves time and money for your business. Aquarius Lawyers is the law firm for assisting those businesses working in the marine environment with all their legal issues. Our firm can provide advice and representation in all areas marine business, commercial fisheries, aquaculture and international law. Known as “The Fish Lawyer” for her specialization in aquaculture, marine and fisheries law, Katherine Hawes is the principal of Aquarius Lawyers. Katherine’s unique blend of business and maritime expertise means that you will be provided with a specialized and professional legal solution. The aim is to provide cost effective legal and compliance solutions for your business. Katherine is a regular speaker at international events on legal issues affecting the marine environment and has completed a Masters of Maritime Law. We understand that the legal system can be a maze but through sound legal advice we aim to guide you through that maze to find the best legal solution for you.

A boutique law firm offering a range of legal services in Compensation and Personal Injury Law. We offer advice on a No Win No Fee basis. We strive to deliver the highest quality legal work and service to our clients. Bound by innovation, not tradition, we continue to redefine the way we practice law. Located in Sydneys Northern Beaches we can also come to you. You will never be out of pocket. If you don’t win, you pay nothing. If you do win, our costs are deducted from the claim, so that you will be left with as much as possible. Our cost agreement is based on professional time and expenses. These costs are only paid once the claim is resolved. For more information contact our No Win No Fee Compensation Lawyers Sydney.

Professional background Partner with Fellner Wratzfeld & Partners since July 2007 Associate and partner in a highly reputed international law firm (1992-2007) Admitted to the Austrian bar in 1999 Attorney at a highly reputed US law firm (1988-1992) Admitted to the Ohio bar since October 1988 Lecturer Drafting and Negotiating Cross-border M & A and Joint Venture Contracts, Juridicum, 1010 Vienna Internationale M&A Vertragsgestaltung, Juridicum, 1010 Vienna Introduction to U.S. Business Law, Juridicum, 1010 Vienna Education Dr. iur., University of Vienna, 1997 Mag. iur., University of Vienna, 1993 JD, University of Iowa, 1988 Core areas of competence Banking & Finance Corporate, M&A and Transactions Dispute Resolution Sectors Banks & Financial Institutions Retail Energy Languages German English (Mother tongue)

Dr. Johannes Hochleitner specializes in corporate law, including advising international groups on all relevant legal matters, ranging from the law on financial markets to consultancy in M&A transactions. The law firm Hochleitner Rechtsanwälte GmbH is situated in Upper Austria, an area which is proud of its thriving economy. Since more than 60 years, the law firm Hochleitner Rechtsanwälte GmbH is an important institution in this area and beyond, advising clients throughout Austria. Moreover, the team of Hochleitner Rechtsanwälte GmbH has relevant experience in cross-border contexts, including the E.U., the U.S., Canada, and several other areas.