Our Team

Jack leads the Mergers & Acquisitions team at Hitch.

Acting for a diverse range of corporate clients, Jack has particular expertise dealing in the healthcare and pharmacy space.

With extensive experience advising on transactions and general commercial law, Jack’s advice reflects a strong understanding of the commercial needs and realities of his clients.

Out of the office you will often find Jack scuba diving, camping, and spending time with his family.

Joel Marshall leads the Hitch Advisory Franchising team at Hitch Advisory.

Having commenced his practice in New Zealand, Joel is well versed in assisting businesses with international expansion, structuring and strategic business advice.

In his down time Joel likes surfing, fishing and exploring the great outdoors.

Hayley Hewitt leads the Hitch Advisory Property team. She acts for a diverse client base in a range of industries, including advising Australia’s largest travel retailers, childcare operators, and property developers.

Hayley has extensive experience advising clients in a range of commercial transactions and is an expert in property related transactions including the sale and purchase of both residential and commercial properties, development projects, and commercial and retail leasing.

Hayley prides herself on being practical, down-to-earth, and detail-oriented. She is committed to developing and maintaining strong relationships with her clients to understand and achieve their legal needs.

Outside of work, Hayley enjoys relaxing at the beach, socialising, and spending time with her young family.

Lazar Krstic is a Principal and leads our Commercial and Employment Law teams.

Lazar advises and acts on a range of transactional, contentious and non-contentious matters, with a keen focus on structuring, implementing incentive schemes and supporting our technology-based clients.

You will otherwise find Lazar in the gym, waking up in the wee hours to watch Chelsea FC or travelling the world.

Nick Hitchens is the Founder and Managing Principal of Hitch Advisory.

He is an expert in business structuring, mergers and acquisitions and employee equity solutions.

Nick founded Hitch Advisory to ensure legal advice is proactive, practical and precise. He believes that lawyers should facilitate and add value to personal and business relationships.

Nick is now responsible for growing and managing the Hitch Advisory team.

He makes time to ensure that client relationships are maintained and clients are achieving their goals with the assistance of the Hitch team.

In his spare time, Nick enjoys spending time with his two daughters, travelling, running, Muay Thai and anything ocean related.

Tim McGrath leads the Hitch Advisory Litigation and Disputes team. Tim advises and acts on a range of disputes and litigated matters with particular expertise in insolvency and bankruptcy, complex corporate disputes, shareholder/partnership conflicts, taxation and revenue matters.

Tim also regularly advises high-net-worth individuals and families on disputed matters relating to estate and trust arrangements and trust administration.

Whilst Tim’s practice often sees him act for clients in large scale litigation, his focus is on seeking to achieve early commercial resolution of matters where possible.

Outside of work, Tim enjoys running, cycling and ocean swimming.

Byron is the Chief Operating Officer at Hitch, responsible for driving operational excellence and disciplined growth so the firm can deliver clear, practical outcomes for clients. He oversees day to day operations, growth and acquisition initiatives, and the systems that support consistent, high quality work across the firm.

Working closely with the leadership team, Byron aligns people, process and technology with client needs. His focus is on implementation, from how matters are opened and staffed through to how teams communicate, manage risk and meet deadlines under real time pressure.

Before joining Hitch, Byron grew and successfully exited his own business and has advised dozens of businesses across industries. This experience gives him a grounded understanding of the reality of building and scaling a business, and the importance of growing sustainably while respecting where a business has come from

Benjamin Tran acts for an extensive range of individuals and corporations across different industries, with a particular focus on childcare.

In addition to general commercial law, Benjamin is particularly skilled in facilitating complex commercial and property transactions and takes a pragmatic approach when managing client needs.

In his spare time, Benjamin enjoys traversing around Australia and the rest of the world in search of excellent restaurants and bars and is particularly fond of Japan.

Cameron Adair leads the Hitch Advisory Insolvency & Restructuring team. Cameron advises and acts for insolvency practitioners, lenders, corporations, and individuals on a range of insolvency, restructuring and distressed situation matters including liquidations, voluntary administrations and receiverships.

Cameron provides technical expertise with a focus on achieving commercial outcomes for his clients.

Outside of work, Cameron enjoys cricket and soccer.

Maryanne Pollifrone leads the Hitch Advisory Wills, Estates & Succession Planning team. Maryanne has worked with many high-net-worth clients to establish or update their succession plans and adopts a pragmatic approach to assisting clients with their estate and succession planning needs. Maryanne breaks down legal concepts into plain English and gains an understanding of family dynamics adopting practical solutions to often sensitive scenarios. Maryanne also manages deceased estate matters and has experience in contested estates.

Outside of work Maryanne enjoys socialising, consuming baked-goods, travel and coastal walks.

Chloe is a lawyer in our Litigation and Disputes team.

Chloe regularly acts and advises clients in relation to commercial disputes including shareholder and director disputes. However, she has particular interest and experience in trusts and estate litigation (including family provision proceedings) having acted in and advised on litigation involving trust and/or estates worth in excess of $50 million.

Whilst Chloe’s practice involves litigation, she is often called on to advise clients on the options available to prevent litigation and assists clients in reaching commercial outcomes where possible.

Outside of the office, Chloe enjoys travelling, hiking, snowboarding and tennis.

Hayden is a Senior Associate in the Hitch Advisory litigation team. While Hayden has a broad practice across commercial, corporate, property and employment disputes and litigation, he has a particular interest in Wills and Estate disputes (including Family Provision Applications).

Hayden builds strong relationships with his clients and is focused on delivering holistic, practical, and effective legal advice.

Outside of the office Hayden enjoys golf and spending time with his friends and family.

Holly Grujovski is a Senior Associate in the Commercial Law team at Hitch, with a background in trade credit management, commercial disputes and insolvency.

She advises established and emerging businesses alike to implement clear, effective contracts that reduce risk, improve cash flow, and minimise disputes. Holly is known for her practical, commercially grounded approach to help clients get paid, stay protected as they grow and resolve contractual disputes pragmatically. She is particularly keen for her clients to understand how to use the Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (PPSA) to secure assets and reduce financial exposure.

Outside of work, Holly balances her love for food, cooking and travel with staying active

Ophelia specialises in franchise law while continuing to work across a variety of commercial matters including SME acquisitions, and contract review and drafting.

She works with clients across a range of industries including hospitality, retail, wellness, manufacturing, trade and professional services.

Ophelia appreciates the needs of small business, having worked in her own family business in hospitality and manufacturing. She prides herself on giving practical advice and working alongside her clients to problem-solve and safeguard their business.

Outside of work, you will either find Ophelia in the Pilates studio or being dragged along on her husbands fishing trips.

Caitlin is an Associate in the Hitch Advisory Property team. Caitlin brings a wealth of experience in various property-related transactions with a keen focus on commercial and retail leasing, the sale and purchase of residential and commercial properties, off-the-plan development projects and other general property related matters.

In particular, Caitlin has assisted some of Australia’s leading retailers such as Muffin Break, Jamaica Blue, Zeus Street Greek, Anytime Fitness and CUE with a range of leasing matters. From navigating complex deals involving major retailers to facilitating seamless residential transactions, Caitlin consistently delivers excellence that speaks for itself. Her collaborative and practical approach ensures that clients receive comprehensive and timely legal support tailored to their needs.

Outside the office, Caitlin indulges in her passion for discovering Sydney’s hidden coffee gems, enjoying quality time with loved ones, and staying active with coastal walks (typically with an iced latte in hand) and Pilates.

Chris is an Associate in the litigation team. Chris has a broad practice across commercial, corporate, property, and transactional disputes and litigation, with a particular interest in compliance and regulatory matters.

In his spare time, Chris is an avid trail runner and cyclist.

Joss is an Associate on the Hitch Advisory Property team who specialises in acquisitions and disposals, retail leasing, property development and property-related disputes. With a keen understanding of the diverse needs of his clientele, ranging from property trusts to some of Australia’s largest retailers, Joss is dedicated to providing clear, concise and timely legal advice.

Joss is particularly adept at advising clients with real estate portfolios across multiple states and territories. His in-depth knowledge of the legal landscape in various states and territories allows him to provide comprehensive guidance that aligns with the nuanced requirements of his client’s diverse portfolios.

Outside of work, you’ll find Joss freediving, ocean swimming, and generally taking advantage of all the incredible beaches that Sydney has to offer.

Harrison is a lawyer in the corporate commercial team. With a broad background in all areas of commercial law, he has developed an affinity for corporate structuring, capital raisings and mergers and acquisitions.

Harrison has provided advice on a wide range of simple and complex transactions as well as the listing of an emerging energy and resources business on the ASX.

Harrison takes pride in analysing the commercial drivers behind each matter and strives to be a problem solver and not a problem creator.

Outside of the office, Harrison enjoys playing and watching rugby, exercise of any form and unwinding with friends over a few drinks.

Nikola is an Associate in the Corporate and Commercial team, offering a general and comprehensive skill set spanning across mergers & acquisitions, commercial disputes, intellectual property, employment law, and general contractual matters.

Nikola boasts a versatile and comprehensive skill set that encompasses various facets of legal practice. His expertise extends across mergers and acquisitions, where he navigates the complexities of corporate transactions with precision and acumen.

Nikola brings together a range of skills to navigate various legal challenges. Whether it’s working on mergers and acquisitions, resolving commercial disputes, protecting intellectual property, managing employment disputes and issues, or handling general contracts, Nikola strives to provide comprehensive solutions. Nikola aims to provide clients with practical and well-rounded legal support in the diverse aspects of their business dealings.

Beyond the confines of the office, Nikola finds solace in activities such as weightlifting, boxing, and strumming a few tunes on the guitar.

Abbie is a dedicated professional in the Franchising & Retail sector with nearly a decade of experience working within some of Australia’s largest franchise systems. While undertaking her studies, she developed a strong interest in the operational and regulatory complexities of franchising.

Abbie assists clients with a general range of commercial law matters, with insight and experience in the preparation and negotiation of franchise agreements and is committed to providing strategic guidance to franchisors and franchisees.

Outside of work, Abbie is a mother of three boys and enjoys quality time with family and friends, as well as exploring the latest dining experiences.

Annabelle Wason is an Estate Planning Lawyer in the Estates & Succession Planning team. Annabelle works with clients that have complex asset structures and assists with preparing and implementing a plan that will give effect to their wishes as it relates to their personal circumstances. Annabelle enjoys breaking down complex scenarios within the realm of estate planning and administration. Annabelle also manages the deceased estate matters.

When I am not at work, you’ll find me at the beach with a book, on a hike, or at home baking. I love spending quality time with friends and family and bringing that energy into my work.

Emani is a junior lawyer in the Franchising & Retail team. With a keen interest in all things franchising, she assists clients in a variety of franchise transactions – from the preparation and negotiation of franchise documents to the sale of franchised businesses.

Emani boasts an impressive list of noteworthy clients across a wide range of industries.

With a genuine passion to help, Emani is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for her clients.

Away from her desk, you will likely find Emani on a run whilst blasting Taylor Swift, exploring the newest wine bars, or enjoying time with family and friends.

Hannah is a Solicitor in the Hitch employment law team. She advises on a wide range of workplace matters, including employment contracts, award coverage, performance management, bullying, drugs and alcohol in the workplace, post-employment restraints and protecting confidential information, terminations, and complex settlement negotiations. Hannah has a particular interest in contentious workplace matters involving claims relating to unfair dismissals, general protections, and discrimination.

Outside of the office, Hannah enjoys good food with friends, Japanese jiu jitsu and travelling the world.

Ruby is a highly motivated, junior lawyer who works across both our litigation and general commercial team. Ruby’s main areas of practice encompass litigation, Wills and Estates and employment law.

Ruby is delivery-focused and detail oriented, providing a broad variety of clients with clear and effective advice.

Outside of the office, Ruby is a keen football player and enjoys skiing with her family.

Zoe has experience in a range of commercial transactions, including in a number of specialised industries such as hospitality and healthcare.

Alongside this transactional work, Zoe is specialised in regulatory approval applications for hospitality venues with liquor licences, at varying scales from major sporting events to small businesses.

Outside the office you will often find Zoe running, dancing, watching musicals and reading about history.

Ross is key member of the Mergers and Acquisitions team at Hitch. He brings a corporate and commercial background developed in New Zealand, with experience advising on a range of M&A, governance and general commercial matters.

Ross takes a practical, solutions-focused approach and enjoys working closely with clients to deliver commercially grounded advice aligned with their objectives.

Outside the office, Ross can be found attempting to improve his golf game, following rugby union, or unwinding with friends and family.

Miguel is a dedicated property conveyancing paralegal, Miguel assists clients across all aspects of the property transaction process, ensuring each matter progresses smoothly from instruction through to completion.

His focus encompasses both residential and commercial sales and purchases Australia wide, and takes pride in providing clear, practical guidance at every stage.

Outside of work, Miguel enjoys spending time in nature by hiking and camping, playing sports or trying new restaurants.

Stefan is an experienced Finance Manager with a strong background across a range of accounting and finance roles within legal practices, as well as industries including engineering and mining. He is recognised for his integrity, technical expertise, and ability to build strong, effective relationships.

He brings a practical, results-driven approach to financial management with a down-to-earth style. Stefan is committed to delivering clear, reliable financial information that supports strategic decision-making.

Outside of work, Stefan enjoys spending time with his family at the beach, attending major sporting events, and travelling.

Barbara is an Executive Assistant in our Operations Team who provides expert support to our Commercial and Wills & Estates teams. Originally from Mexico, she has a legal background in her home country, which brings a thoughtful and organised approach to her work.

Based in Sydney, she enjoys being part of a collaborative environment and helping things run smoothly behind the scenes. If you visit the office, she’ll likely be one of the first to welcome you.

Outside of work, Barbara enjoys staying active, whether it’s a HIIT class or going for a run – discovering new spots around the city, and spending time with friends.

Saskia is an Executive Assistant and a key member of Hitch’s operations team, providing high level support to the firm’s principals and lawyers.

Saskia works closely across the business to ensure the smooth day to day running of the firm, with a strong focus on organisation, communication, and client experience.

Outside of the office, Saskia enjoys going to the gym and Pilates, spending time with friends, and catching sunsets whenever she can.

Tayla is an Executive Assistant within the Operations Team, providing specialised support to the Dispute Resolution team. She brings extensive administrative experience and has been with Hitch for several years, growing alongside the firm as it has expanded.

Known for her solutions-focused approach, Tayla plays a key role in ensuring the office runs smoothly and efficiently.

Outside of work, Tayla enjoys cooking, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with friends and family.