Our Team

  • Our lawyers adopt a ‘hands on’ proactive approach and are committed to providing legal services which are innovative, commercial and cost effective. 

  • We strive to develop and maintain a sound and collaborative working relationship with our clients and believe that a total understanding of our client’s values and objectives is paramount.

  • The Principals and Senior Associates of the firm are committed to providing leadership and mentoring to support junior legal staff. There is a commitment to ongoing knowledge and development.

  • Our Solicitors, Graduates and Paralegals work closely with our Principals and Senior Associates. At JTA Law we encourage a positive and productive work environment.

  • Joanne Scott

    PRINCIPAL

    Joanne has been with us since the firm’s inception in 2000 and holds a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Economics majoring in Business Finance and Economics from Macquarie University.

    Joanne has been practicing in the areas of property and commercial law, insurance law and estate planning for almost three decades. She has broad commercial drafting skills and extensive defence and recoveries litigation experience in jurisdictions ranging from consumer claims tribunals to the High Court of Australia.

    Joanne prides herself on being concise, forward thinking, collaborative and proactive in terms of how matters are handled. Integrity and professionalism are pivotal to how she conducts her practice.

  • Erin Eagles

    SENIOR ASSOCIATE

    Erin commenced her legal career with JTA Law and is an integral member of the team. She holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Technology Sydney and a Master of Laws from the University of Sydney.

    Erin has experience in appearing for and advising insurer clients, in both a subrogated setting and directly, on various litigated and internal matters. She also has experience in commercial, corporate and intellectual property law. As a result, she has cultivated a well-rounded skillset and an adaptability to meet challenges.

    Drawing on her expertise, ability to think proactively and knowledge of the law, Erin provides impeccable advice to clients that is tailored to their specific circumstances.

  • Brendan Churcher

    SENIOR ASSOCIATE

    Brendan holds a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Science from the University of Wollongong. Brendan has been with JTA Law for over 20 years having commenced his legal career with the firm in 2001.

    Throughout his time with JTA Law, Brendan has gained extensive experience in the areas of professional indemnity, industrial special risks and commercial and construction liability insurance.

    Brendan has the tenacity to approach matters proactively with the aim of achieving innovative, efficient and solution-orientated outcomes.

  • Karl Adra

    SENIOR ASSOCIATE

    Karl holds a Diploma of Law from the University of Sydney Legal Practitioners Admission Board and an Associate Diploma in Accounting.

    He brings extensive experience as an insurance lawyer, representing both defendants and plaintiffs. Karl possesses a comprehensive understanding of insurance law, litigation, policy advisory, and dispute resolution management.

    His legal practice is further enriched by his previous roles as a professional indemnity underwriter and senior claims consultant for a leading multinational insurer, giving him a unique perspective on the insurance industry.

    Karl is a thorough and dedicated lawyer with proven commercial acumen. Known for his approachable nature, he builds lasting relationships with clients and is committed to delivering the best possible outcomes.

  • Paul Doig

    SOLICITOR / BUSINESS MANAGER

    Paul completed his Bachelor of Laws, majoring in Commercial Law, at Macquarie University in 2021 and was admitted to practice law the same year.

    Throughout his career, Paul has been passionate about leadership and development.  He is committed to empowering teams, creating a culture of collaboration, accountability, and improvement through innovation.

    Paul rejoined our team in 2025 after a period of broadening his management, operational, and leadership experience at national firms.  He has a proven ability to drive organisational efficiency and ensuring that business success aligns with best practices.

    Given Paul’s legal training and business management skills,  Paul plays a key role in enhancing long-term sustainability for JTA Law clients.

  • Libby Douglas

    SOLICITOR

    Libby joined JTA Law in 2024. She completed her Bachelor of Laws at Macquarie University in 2017, and was admitted as a solicitor in 2018.

    Libby specialises in insurance matters and civil litigation. She also has experience in commercial, corporate and property law.

    Libby is passionate about assisting clients navigate legal matters and finding practical tailored solutions to meet their needs.

  • Ollie Ticehurst

    PARALEGAL

    Ollie T is one of the paralegals at JTA Law. Ollie joined in 2023 and is studying a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Science at Macquarie University.

  • Ollie Cushing

    PARALEGAL

    Ollie C is one of the paralegals at JTA Law. Ollie joined JTA Law in early 2024 and is studying a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Science at the University of Technology Sydney.

  • Rita Liristis

    LEGAL ASSISTANT

    Rita has been with JTA Law since 2012 and has over 30 years experience as a legal assistant.

    Rita completed her legal secretarial course at Metropolitan Business College in 1991 and completed the Law Society of NSW Legal Secretarial Training Program in 2005.

    Rita supports a number of lawyers in the practice.

  • Melanie Murray

    OFFICE MANAGER

    Melanie has been with JTA Law since its inception in 2000.

    Melanie is involved in the operational and administrative aspects of JTA Law with over 30 years’ experience in the legal industry as a legal assistant and in operational support.

    Melanie holds a Diploma in Practice Management from the University of New England.