Global law firm opens office in Papua New Guinea 

Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright announced today the appointment of Karo Lelai, who has joined as the principal of its new office in Port Moresby.

Mrs Lelai joins after serving as general counsel to Kumul Minerals (formerly Petromin) since July 2014 and in other legal roles. She will work in the PNG office with dedicated regional support from Sydney corporate partners Anthony Latimer and Steve Johns, among others.

Norton Rose Fulbright has a long history working in PNG, largely from its Australian offices. The firm has done significant work for the PNG Government and private companies over many years. Recently we advised on several high-profile energy, mining, infrastructure and telecommunications deals, engaged in dispute resolution and also assisted in the development of key legislation. Financial services will be an increasing focus over coming years.

Norton Rose Fulbright managing partner in Australia, Wayne Spanner, commented:
“We have wanted to solidify our presence in PNG for some time now, but it was important to find the right person to represent us on the ground. Karo, with her strong standing in the local market and excellent industry experience, is the perfect choice for us. We are confident that, along with Anthony Latimer’s decades of experience in the region, we have the skills and local understanding in place to be able to offer an innovative and high quality service to clients across a range of sectors.”

Mrs Lelai commented:
“I am proud to be joining an elite global law firm as it establishes its first office in PNG. I have known Norton Rose Fulbright and its partners professionally for many years, and observed the high quality work they do for PNG and international clients.”

Norton Rose Fulbright in Australia has added seven other lateral partners since January 2016: Peter Lamont, Ellen Thomas, Jacques Jacobs, Samantha Kelly, Peter Bowden, Samantha Maddern and Katherine Morris.

Source: Norton Rose Fulbright

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