RENEE DEVAAN
Summary
I was admitted as a Solicitor to the Supreme Court of Queensland in June 2024. I have specialised in Defence Historical Abuse Insurance Law. I have developed expertise in managing complex historical abuse claims, providing strategic legal counsel, and defending against abuse allegations. My practice focuses on analysing insurance policies, conducting in-depth legal research, and supporting litigation efforts. I work closely with clients, insurance adjusters, and legal teams to implement effective defence strategies, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards. Known for my strong analytical skills and collaborative approach, I am committed to achieving optimal outcomes for clients in high-stakes cases.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Solicitor
HWL Ebsworth Lawyers
07.2024 - Current
- Led and managed a portfolio of historical abuse claims, providing expert legal counsel and representing clients in litigation, with a focus on defending claims involving historical abuse allegations.
- Interpreted and assessed insurance policies in relation to historical abuse claims, advising clients on coverage disputes, exclusions, and policy terms. Ensure strategic alignment with client interests regarding indemnity, limits, and potential liabilities.
- Defended clients in complex and high-stakes historical abuse cases, appearing in court as needed, while managing settlements and negotiations in order to minimize exposure and protect client interests.
- Provided timely and comprehensive legal advice to clients, guiding them through the legal process, advising on potential risks, and ensuring they are informed of case developments.
- Assessed potential risks associated with ongoing claims and litigation, identifying opportunities for defence and developing mitigation strategies, including settlement discussions and alternative dispute resolutions.
- Stayed up-to-date with case law, statutory changes, and trends in historical abuse claims and insurance law, ensuring the provision of informed, cutting-edge legal advice and the application of the latest legal precedents.
- Worked collaboratively with internal and external legal teams, insurance adjusters, and third-party experts to build robust defence strategies, including expert witness testimonies and evidence gathering.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory and statutory requirements specific to historical abuse claims within the insurance sector, advising clients on legal obligations and regulatory updates.
Paralegal
HWL Ebsworth Lawyers
12.2023 - 07.2024
- Conducted thorough research on case law, statutes, and legal precedents related to historical abuse and insurance claims to assist in case preparation and strategic defence planning.
- Drafted, organised, and maintained legal documents, including court filings, pleadings, and correspondence.
- Assisted in collecting and reviewing evidence, including witness statements, medical records, and other relevant documents, to support the defence strategy in historical abuse claims.
- Provided essential support during the litigation process, including preparing exhibits, organizing case files for trial, and assisting with settlement negotiations or alternative dispute resolutions.
- Prepared and filed legal documents with courts, ensuring all filings are timely and accurate. Attend court hearings when necessary to assist in case proceedings.
- Worked closely with lawyers to ensure the efficient handling of claims, including compiling case files and coordinating with necessary stakeholders.
Paralegal
Wotton + Kearney Lawyers
05.2023 - 10.2023
- Assisted lawyers in drafting legal documents, including pleadings, contracts, and correspondence
- Conducted thorough legal research to gather pertinent information related to institutional abuse cases, including relevant laws, regulations, and precedents
- Assisted in the organization and management of case files, drafting legal documents, maintaining records, and ensuring all deadlines were met
- Prepared and drafted legal documents such as pleadings, affidavits, and court filings, ensuring accuracy and compliance with legal procedures
- Provided invaluable support during court proceedings, attending hearings, managing exhibits, and liaising with court personnel
- Conducted legal research and gather relevant information for cases
- Assisted with document management, including filing, organisation, and indexing
- Liaised with clients, barristers, and court personnel
- Maintained confidentiality of sensitive information
Legal Assistant (Private Clients)
Cooper Grace Ward Lawyers
09.2021 - 04.2023
- Assistant to 2 Accredited Specialist partners
- Collected, examined, and organised evidence and other legal documents for solicitors' review and case preparation
- Drafted and proofread correspondence and legal documents, such as pleadings and contracts
- Researched regulations, laws, and legal articles to assist with the preparation of reports, case files, and legal advice
- Managed client billing by preparing, finalising, and sending out bills, as well as resolving billing issues in cooperation with the billing solicitors
- Communicated with clients and witnesses to schedule meetings, interviews, and depositions
- Managed, organised, and maintained documents in paper or electronic filing systems
- Provided general administrative assistance, such as maintaining authors' calendars and making travel arrangements
New Client Team Operator
Shine Lawyers
03.2021 - 08.2021
- Established initial relationship with clients by interpreting clients' needs to connect them with the most appropriate internal service to meet that need
- Developed strong relationships with clients, by being empathetic and tailoring approach to create a safe environment for the client to communicate their concerns and needs
- Independently analyzing and evaluating new client information and determines reliability and accuracy before making the decision to refer on as a new client booking or provide external referral options when services required are not provided by Shine
- Identified and recommended opportunities to improve systems, processes, and work practices
- Supported the onboarding and development of new team members
Legal Referral Officer
Collection House Group
12.2019 - 02.2021
- Assisted in achieving team targets by appropriately assessing legal referrals and ensure that viable enforcement avenues are available
- Maintained adequate knowledge of all current legal requirements, client requirements and applicable systems
- Ensured database are effectively maintained through correct file maintenance including contact and profile information, file notations and workflow management
- Determined the best course of action and negotiate with customers before referring to legal department
Debt Recoveries Officer
Collection House Group
02.2019 - 12.2019
- Handled inbound and outbound calls completing standard debt collection tasks
- Examined accounts and determine the best course of action for the Client and the Company
- Negotiated the collection of outstanding accounts
- Followed the legal and client workflows on all accounts
- Adherence to all legislative guidelines which govern the industry including ACCC and the Privacy Act
Education
Bachelor of Laws, LLB Honours -
QUT
04.2025
Diploma of Legal Services - undefined
TAFE Queensland
01.2019
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice
College of Law
04-2024
Skills
- Strong negotiation skills
- Effective communication
- Legal document preparation
- Case management expertise
Timeline
Solicitor
HWL Ebsworth Lawyers
07.2024 - Current
Paralegal
HWL Ebsworth Lawyers
12.2023 - 07.2024
Paralegal
Wotton + Kearney Lawyers
05.2023 - 10.2023
Legal Assistant (Private Clients)
Cooper Grace Ward Lawyers
09.2021 - 04.2023
New Client Team Operator
Shine Lawyers
03.2021 - 08.2021
Legal Referral Officer
Collection House Group
12.2019 - 02.2021
Debt Recoveries Officer
Collection House Group
02.2019 - 12.2019
Diploma of Legal Services - undefined
TAFE Queensland
Bachelor of Laws, LLB Honours -
QUT
Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice
College of Law
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