Stanton & Stanton Announce Promotion of Jack Hutchinson and Karl Panarello to Senior Associates

"Jack Hutchinson and Karl Panarello are outstanding solicitors, their promotion is a testament not only to their legal expertise and unwavering dedication, but also to their embodiment of the values that define Stanton & Stanton, client-centricity, collaboration, and a drive to go beyond the expected” says Kenneth Stanton, Principal.

From their first days at Stanton & Stanton, Jack and Karl have embraced every opportunity for professional growth and meaningful contribution. Their journeys through the firm have been marked by a consistent commitment to excellence, integrity, and the human side of law.

As they step into these new senior positions, they celebrate personal milestones and reflect the firm’s ongoing investment in nurturing and promoting talent from within.

“Jack and Karl have lived the Stanton & Stanton values every step of the way,” says Diana Wallen, Stanton & Stanton Practice Manager. “They consistently go beyond the law, connecting with clients on a deeper level and offering advice that is not just technically sound but commercially strategic. We are proud to see them take this next step in their careers.”

A Clear Path to Growth

At Stanton & Stanton, career progression is more than just a possibility; it is a planned journey. From their early days as junior solicitors, both Jack and Karl were supported with development pathways, guided mentorship, and hands-on client exposure.

“We’re committed to our people just as much as they’re committed to us,” says Laura Quarrell, Principal. “That mutual investment is at the heart of our firm’s culture. We do not just offer opportunities; we actively build them.”

The firm’s internal culture, which values curiosity, initiative and personal growth, has played a significant role in shaping both Jack and Karl into the trusted advisors they are today. Their promotions are a reflection of their hard work and the firm’s commitment to fostering long-term careers.

Jack Hutchinson: Finding the Human Element in Every Matter

As a solicitor in Stanton & Stanton’s Litigation Team, Jack Hutchinson has worked across a broad range of civil and commercial litigation, particularly in matters with a rural focus. But what sets Jack apart is the way he approaches his work, with a calm, considered presence and an unwavering belief that relationships matter just as much as outcomes.

“My approach has evolved significantly over the years,” Jack reflects. “It is not just about the matter anymore. It’s about getting to know the client as a person, understanding their business, and being willing to have the hard conversations, especially the ones they might not want to hear. That is where the real value lies.”

This commitment to deep, trust-based client relationships has not only earned Jack the respect of his peers, but also the lasting confidence of those he represents. In one memorable matter, Jack represented a client involved in a five-year legal dispute that was finally resolved through mediation.

“It wasn’t just a good result financially,” Jack says. “It meant our client, who was nearing retirement, could finally let go of the stress that had dominated his life for years. That is what matters most to me, the human side of what we do.”

As a Senior Associate, Jack is already stepping into the role of mentor and leader for junior staff, focusing on sharing the same guidance he received when he was starting out.

“I always make time to answer questions and support our juniors. I remember how critical that guidance was for me, and I want to pay that forward. We succeed as a team, and I want both our staff and our clients to feel that every step of the way.”

Karl Panarello: Building Trust and Commercial Confidence

As an integral member of Stanton & Stanton’s Commercial and Corporate Team, Karl Panarello has developed a reputation for his breadth of legal knowledge and his strategic, commercial mindset. His ability to connect with clients as a legal professional and as a trusted advisor has been central to his success.

“To me, treating clients like close friends means more than being approachable; it means genuinely understanding their goals and taking a commercial view of their challenges,” Karl explains. “It’s about listening, empathising, and offering advice that helps them succeed, not just stay compliant.”

Karl credits Stanton & Stanton’s unique approach to early career development as instrumental to his growth. Unlike larger firms that often shield junior lawyers from client interactions, Stanton & Stanton actively encourage it, something that helped Karl hone his communication and relationship building skills early on.

“Now, many of our clients come to me as their first point of contact. That level of trust is incredibly rewarding. And it all starts with clear, efficient and responsive communication.”

As he steps into his new role, Karl is particularly focused on helping junior team members build their confidence through practical experience and thoughtful mentorship.

“I want our team to understand the ‘why’ behind what we do, not just the ‘how.’ When people feel empowered to take initiative, and know they are supported whether things go right or wrong, they grow faster and stronger. That is how we build great lawyers.”

Karl also brings a distinctive ‘value-add’ mindset to his client work, often connecting clients with a wider network of professionals, including brokers, accountants, and financial advisors.

“It is all about going beyond the legal technicalities. When you can think creatively and commercially, and bring in other trusted partners, you are not just solving a legal issue, you are contributing to the client’s overall success.”

Investing In The Future Together

The promotions of Jack and Karl represent more than just two individuals stepping into senior roles. They are a reflection of Stanton & Stanton’s broader commitment to building a legal practice where people thrive, clients trust, and long-term relationships are the cornerstone of success.

“We don’t see growth as something that happens in isolation,” says Kenneth Stanton, Principal. “It is the product of strong mentorship, deep collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence. Jack and Karl are great examples of that approach.

‍