The annual Women in Law Awards recognise the influence of exceptional women in the Australian legal industry. The judging criteria for Award categories are both quantitative and qualitative, acknowledging growth, business development, diversity, leadership, innovation, business excellence and contribution to the legal sector.
On Thursday 23 November over 700 legal professionals attended the 12th annual Women in Law Awards evening at the Crown Melbourne to watch 276 finalists compete for trophies across a range of categories. Taking home the Special Counsel of the Year Award for 2023, Marissa commented: "I am honoured to be recognised and I congratulate all of the winners and finalists. As part of my commitment to the legal profession, my clients and my peers, I am passionate about championing women in the law and ensuring more women thrive professionally and personally in the industry. I am proud to be a part of this important celebration of women's achievements."
Marissa has a unique expertise in respiratory illness claims and dust disease litigation. She is highly experienced in defending catastrophic injury and medical negligence claims, as well as plaintiff and defendant insurance litigation. She is one of the key leaders of DWF's Institutional Abuse team in Australia. Marissa serves as a Committee member for Women in Insurance (Qld) and is Chairperson of DWF's Diversity & Inclusion and Corporate Social Responsibility Committee. She drives a variety of fundraising and volunteering initiatives at DWF for organisations such as Wesley Mission Queensland, Habitat for Humanity and Kids Helpline.
Commenting on the Award, Damien van Brunschot, Managing Partner DWF Australia, said “On behalf of DWF, I congratulate Marissa on this achievement. Marissa is an integral part of DWF's leadership team and we are thrilled to see her nationally acknowledged for her outstanding client and community work. This Award serves as recognition of the significant contributions Marissa has made, not only to DWF but across the industry and community."
