McCabes

Insurance

Principal

Leighton is a principal in the Insurance division of the firm. He also proudly leads the firm's Government division, managing a dedicated team of lawyers who assist and advise government agencies in NSW across a vast variety of legal matters.

Leighton has almost 20 years' experience in the insurance industry and government sector, with experience in claims management and other technical roles having previously worked with a major Australian insurance company. This past experience has allowed him to better understand his client's needs and their business drivers, assisting the firm to develop true partnerships with its clients..

Leighton represents various global and national insurers, defending all manner of general liability claims, including public liability, product liability, contract works and construction liability exposures. He also acts for sporting and recreational clubs including a number of the country's largest pub and hotel companies. He also regularly advises on insurance policy interpretation, coverage, and has assisted clients with their policy wordings.

In addition, Leighton manages a diverse range of claims on behalf of NSW Government agencies, including claims arising from public liability, professional indemnity, property damage and construction (CRIF), asbestos, sexual abuse, discrimination, defamation, debt recovery and environmental law.

Leighton has a strong interest in Coronial law, and represents government and private clients in coronial inquests. Most recently, he acted for NSW National Parks and Wildlife in the coronial inquest into the 2019/20 'Black Summer' Bushfires, one of the longest running inquests held in NSW.

In addition to the above experience, Leighton has a strong interest in mentoring, both internally within McCabes and through volunteer work with the NSW Law Society's mentoring program. Leighton is also a legal adviser and committee member for Will It Your Way, a charity organisation seeking to advance education among young people on the importance of having a will.

English