At JTA Law, we value strong, collaborative relationships built on a clear understanding of our clients’ values and objectives. We believe true sophistication lies in delivering clear, effective, and practical legal solutions.
Our principals and senior associates provide leadership and mentoring to support the growth of our junior staff, fostering continual learning and professional development. Solicitors, graduates, and paralegals work closely together, ensuring a seamless and consistent standard of excellence across all matters.
We promote a positive, productive workplace where our lawyers take a hands-on, proactive approach – delivering legal services that are innovative, commercially sound, and elegantly simple.
Joanne Scott
MANAGING PARTNER | GAICD
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.
Brendan Churcher
PARTNER
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.
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.
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.
Olivia Keighran
SOLICITOR
Olivia completed a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource Management) at Macquarie University in 2024 and was admitted as a lawyer in 2025.
Her early legal experience spans environmental, estate planning, property, and insurance law.
Olivia is committed to providing comprehensive, client‑focused advice and assists clients in navigating complex legal matters with clarity and confidence.
Oliver Cushing
PARALEGAL
Oliver Cushing is one of the paralegals at
Rita Liristis
SENIOR LEGAL ASSISTANT
Rita has been with JTA Law since 2012 and has over 30 years’ experience as a legal assistant.
Rita leads a team of legal assistants and has extensive experience in supporting lawyers in conveyancing, insurance litigation and commercial matters.
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.
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.