Cathy Spurr, the co-principal of the firm, has lived in the Territory since she was eight and has been practising law in Darwin for 25 years. She joined Halfpennys in 1996 and became a partner in 2000.

Cathy is highly respected in the Territory legal fraternity for her practice in workers’ compensation, personal injury and medical negligence. She’s a passionate advocate for her clients’ rights in these areas and has dedicated her career to seeking justice for them.

The precursor to Cathy’s legal career was a little different to most practitioners at managing partner level.

After finishing a four-year apprenticeship as an electronics technician, Cathy’s first job was as a receptionist at a plaintiff law firm. She studied law on the side and moved up to legal secretary for six years before she graduated and was admitted to practise as a lawyer in 1995.

Cathy understands how difficult it can be jumping through insurers’ hoops in workers’ compensation and personal injuries cases. ‘But barriers are there to be overcome’, she said. ‘And that’s one of the most rewarding aspects of my role.’ Cathy offers a first interview free on workers’ compensation matters.

She’s also active in a number of school and community groups. Cathy was awarded a Telstra Business Women’s Award in 2004 for her outstanding work achievements and ability to balance an active work and family life.

Outside work, Cathy’s been an active member of the Northern Territory branch of the Australian Labor Party since she was 19 and has been elected its President on numerous occasions.