Chris Dennett is a seasoned insurance litigator with twenty years’ experience defending personal injury claims across workers compensation, compulsory third party (CTP), public liability, and employment law. He is known for his strategic approach to litigation and his ability to deliver commercially sound outcomes through negotiation and early resolution. Chris regularly advises insurers, employers, and statutory bodies on complex liability disputes and legislative interpretation.
His practice includes high-profile matters involving injuries on construction sites, journey claims, and psychological injury disputes. Chris has appeared in multiple jurisdictions and is frequently engaged in appellate litigation. Recognised as a Preeminent Lawyer in CTP Insurance by Doyle’s Guide, Chris combines technical precision with a pragmatic mindset, helping clients manage risk and resolve claims efficiently in sensitive and high-stakes environments.
Expertise
Experience
- Law Society of the ACT Advising numerous plaintiffs, defendant firms and relevant third-party insurers on the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2019 (ACT) and co-authoring a widely distributed paper examining its provisions.
- Workers Compensation Insurer Advising on the extent of an employer’s duty of care to an employee in Jancevski v WR Engineering Pty Ltd ATF WR Engineering Trust [2016] ACTMC 8, and the interpretation of journey claims provisions contained within s36 of the Workers Compensation Act 1951 (ACT) in Keiziah Kabutey v QBE Management Services Pty Ltd (WC 385 of 2013).
- Relevant CTP Insurer Advising on Ryan v Bhagria & Anor [2020] ACTSC 353 and securing a verdict for the defendants in a low-speed accident claim, with the Court finding no injury or loss despite admitted liability.
- Relevant CTP Insurer Advising on Kyle Brooker v Blocktrans Pty Ltd (2018/00087802) in relation to a nervous shock claim from a blameless accident, ultimately persuading plaintiff’s counsel to withdraw the claim during informal negotiations.
