SCHEMBRI + MCCLUSKYS - Key Persons
Adam Kerr was admitted to practice as a lawyer by the Supreme Court of Victoria in 2007. He joined Schembri + McCluskys in 2015 and is a valued employee of the firm.
With his broad experience of handling a range of dispute resolution matters together with his general civil litigation experience, Adam is able to represent clients in all courts in Victoria in multimillion dollar disputes as well as smaller claims.
Alicia was admitted to practice as a lawyer by the Supreme Court of Victoria in 2020. She has been at Schembri + McCluskys since 2019 after gaining five years' experience in a conveyancing and wills firm.
Though conveyancing is largely transactional in nature there are many unexpected problems that can arise and for her it is extremely rewarding to be able to provide clients with informed and well-thought-out strategies to confidently guide them through difficult and problematic situations.
Alicia cites one of the most enjoyable factors of working at Schembri + McCluskys is the firm's culture and supportive learning environment.
She has volunteered at the Night Service at Darebin Community Legal Centre as a Paralegal for the past six years which she finds rewarding as she is able to assist those who would otherwise not be able to afford legal help.
Outside of work Alicia enjoys live music and being a "local" in her community.
Cameron Forster was admitted to practice as a lawyer by the Supreme Court of Victoria in 2000. He joined Schembri + McCluskys in 2014 after many years in insurance litigation, and has continued his focus on litigation matters. He is a dedicated and meticulous lawyer and is an asset to our firm.
Job Titles:
- Senior Associate
- ASSOCIATE LAWYER
Helen completed a Bachelor of Laws at Deakin University, graduating with Honours. Helen joined Schembri + McCluskys in 2014 where her dedication and hard work has seen her grow from a junior lawyer to a valued and dedicated Associate Lawyer.
Helen practises predominantly in the areas of Family Law and Wills & Estate Litigation. She is a passionate and diligent lawyer who understands the sensitive and emotional complexity of family law and estate litigation and appreciates the importance of listening to our clients and achieving a resolution that best suits their needs.
Jessica McCrohan was admitted by the Supreme Court of Victoria as a Lawyer in 2018 after completing her law degree and working full time as assistant to the Principal, Stephen Schembri since 2015. Her success in that role displayed her dedication and commitment to our firm and while Stephen was reluctant to lose her as his "right arm" he is proud to support her and mentor her as a young lawyer.
Jessica is eager to gain experience as a lawyer in all areas of the law and has therefore worked on many different matters and cases within our firm, however, her passion is Family Law and Criminal Law. She has a positive attitude and is predisposed to being pragmatic which is of great value to her clients and our firm.
Job Titles:
- Principal
- PRINCIPAL LAWYER
Stephen was admitted to practice as a lawyer by the Supreme Court of Victoria in 1998. He began his career as a Police Officer, then, after successfully completing a Law degree, proceeded to become a Police Prosecutor working for the Victorian Office of Public Prosecutions. In 2003, his passion for justice and serving the community led him to establishing Schembri + McCluskys.
As a generalist lawyer specialising in family, criminal and civil litigation matters, Stephen has appeared in all Victorian jurisdictions, including the Magistrates' Court, County Court, Children's Court and Supreme Court.
Whether representing clients in court, presenting straight forward advice, or advocating in any other setting, Stephen's considerable knowledge, judgement and exemplary lawyering skills are always tailored to his client's best interest to ensure the most favourable outcomes. He carefully assesses and identifies the most important issues and leads negotiations to achieve successful results. He is acutely aware of the financial and emotional stress legal matters can cause his clients and works towards the best possible solution for each case.
Outside of work, Stephen is a dedicated family man who enjoys down-time at the beach and travelling. He is an avid runner, finishing over 30 marathons reflects his natural determination. He is also a music lover, avid Beatles fan, collects memorabilia, has a strong interest in restoring historic buildings and is a passionate Essendon Football Club Cotarian.
Nearing a 20-year milestone, Stephen is justifiably proud of the firm. The lawyers, support staff and the results they have achieved for his clients during this time is a testament to his ongoing professionalism. He derives enormous satisfaction mentoring lawyers. As well as managing his own files, as Principal, he also oversees other lawyers' files. He assures all clients, present and future, that their matter will be conducted skilfully and diligently, with a continual desire and commitment to achieve the best possible result.
Wendy Maitland-Smith was admitted to practice as a lawyer by the Supreme Court of Victoria in 1978. She joined Schembri + McCluskys in 2018 following 40 years in her own practice. She is a well regarded by her clients and peers. Wendy aims to provide sound, pragmatic and cost effective legal advice to her clients in a timely manner. Wendy is an asset to our firm by acting as a senior mentor to our junior lawyers and support staff.
During the past 40 years Wendy has operated private practices in Sunbury, Melbourne and Essendon/Moonee Ponds area. Wendy is a generalist lawyer able to assist her clients in all legal matters, however, her special interests are Family Law, Property Law and Wills/Estates for individual clients.