Sparke Helmore announces merger

Brisbane CBD practice Woods Prince Lawyers (WPL) has merged with national firm Sparke Helmore this week.

Two senior partners, Heather Beckingsale and Aston Joppich, and a team of nine lawyers joined Sparke Helmore on Monday, 31 March.


Aston Joppich

Sparke Helmore’s local Corporate and Commercial team will more than double in size, significantly strengthening its presence in Brisbane and across Queensland.

National Managing Partner Andrew White said: “We are very pleased to be joining forces with Woods Prince Lawyers. They are a firm known for developing strong relationships with their clients and treating their staff like family.

Andrew White

“Their values strongly align with those of Sparke Helmore, making this an excellent cultural fit. The addition of Heather, Aston and their team allows us to expand our offerings in the region, with mutually beneficial synergies between our two practices.”

Heather, the outgoing WPL Managing Director, said: “This is a tremendous opportunity for our firm to merge with a well-established national firm that is committed to a strong local presence.


Heather Beckingsale

“This collaboration will provide us with opportunities for professional growth and development, allowing us to engage with new clients and to expand the services we can offer our loyal WPL client base. We are all eager to embark on this journey and look forward to an exciting future together.”

The team includes consultant Matthew Woods, Special Counsels Brendan Ezzy and Rebecca O’Loan, Senior Associate Marjorie Toledo, Associates Jacob Lobban and Marcus Malouf, and lawyers Andrew Patterson, Gabryel McNamara and Michelé Du Buisson.

With this addition, Sparke Helmore Queensland will have 18 partners and a total headcount of just under 140 lawyers and legal support staff.