By Francisco Silva -
Western Sydney lawyer and Senior Partner of Marsdens Law Group, Jim Marsden will have his lifework recognised with a life membership of the Law Society of NSW.
Law Society President Ronan MacSweeney explained the significance of the accolade. “Life membership of the Law Society of NSW recognises more than longevity in the law,” he said. “It’s a recognition of a solicitor member’s distinguished and meritorious service to the administration of justice and extends to their achievements outside the law.”
In 1973, Marsden joined Marsdens Law Group, the law firm founded by his late brother John in 1968. He turned it into a powerhouse law firm employing over 200 staff, expanding from a head office in Campbelltown to four other locations across the Sydney’s South-West and CBD. Among his many achievements, Marsden guided the partnership between the Balmain and Western Suburbs Rugby League clubs that led to the formation of the West Tigers.
“Mr Marsden has mentored generations of early-career lawyers who’ve developed flourishing legal careers of their own. He grew a glowing reputation for expertise in property law, and helped modernise conveyancing law, including as a member of the Law Society’s Conveyancing Task Force,” said MacSweeney.
“In the finest traditions of the legal profession, Mr Marsden showed a practical commitment to providing access to the most vulnerable in our community through pro-bono legal work, winning the 2012 Law Society Pro Bono Lawyer of the Year award.”
In 2013 Marsden was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his service and dedication to his community.
“On behalf of the state’s solicitor profession, I congratulate Mr Marsden on this award of life membership,” concluded MacSweeney.
Main image: (from left) Jacqueline Dawson, Senior Vice President, Law Society of NSW, Jim Marsden OAM and former Law Society Presidents Cassandra Banks and Brett McGrath.
