Shannon Watts

Shannon is a Senior Paralegal with more than 20 years’ experience in personal injury litigation acting for both Plaintiffs and Defendants giving her a balanced perspective on liability and claims management. She understands the importance of achieving results to the satisfaction of all key stakeholders.

Shannon works extensively in the areas of Health and Emergency Services and appreciates the particular needs, challenges and business considerations of the employer and insurer alike.

Shannon is qualified in both the areas of Human Resources and industrial relations. Her experience includes working as a Junior to Counsel, an Administrator for a Plaintiff practice, Senior Administrator at a mid-size Plaintiff firm and Senior Paralegal for an international insurance firm before commencing with SMK in 2012.

Shannon has attended numerous WorkCover workshops and has spent many years as a workers’ legal representative and advocate. She is skilled in providing insight into the motivation of workers, which in turn assists in facilitating early resolution of matters.

With a full and thorough understanding of all procedural aspects, including taxation implications, Centrelink issues concerning Plaintiff’s, Shannon uses this to develop strategies for early resolution. She has an excellent understanding of return to work processes and barriers as required to work hand-in-hand with medical practitioners in last employment.

Shannon’s dedication and strive for excellent legal services for her clients makes her highly sought after for her knowledge and advice in assisting her clients navigate and understand the relevant legislation and best practice.

Qualifications

• Legal Secretarial Diploma
• Diploma in Human Resources – specialising in workplace behaviour, workplace training, industrial relations, occupational health and safety and risk management
• Law Society course in workers compensation and advanced litigation in NSW