

Max Bonnell is a distinguished partner at Henry William Lawyers, renowned for his commercial litigation expertise and strategic approach to dispute resolution. His guiding principle in every case is to pinpoint the client's objectives and determine the most efficient path to success. Max handles a broad spectrum of commercial disputes spanning banking, corporate, mining, resources, and construction sectors. With a legal career that commenced at Allen Allen & Hemsley as a solicitor and senior associate, Max has accumulated vast experience across top firms, including King & Wood Mallesons, where he served as a partner for over 18 years, and White & Case LLP. His tenure at these firms has solidified his reputation as one of Australia's most esteemed litigators. Max is also a dedicated educator and thought leader, contributing to the field as an Adjunct Professor of Law at the University of Sydney since 2009. He actively engages with the legal community through his fellowships at the Australian Centre for International Commercial Arbitration and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, reflecting his commitment to advancing arbitration practices. Max's academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts with Honours and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Sydney, complemented by a Master of Arts from the University of Warwick. His combination of practical experience and academic involvement ensures he remains at the forefront of legal developments, offering clients exceptional insight and advocacy.

Partner
Henry William Lawyers
Mar 2019 - Present • 7 years 8 months

Partner
White & Case LLP
Oct 2017 - Feb 2019 • 1 year 4 months
Fellow
Australian Centre for International Commercial Arbitration
Jan 2010 - Present • 16 years 10 months

Adjunct Professor of Law
University of Sydney
Jan 2009 - Present • 17 years 10 months

Fellow
Chartered Institute of Arbitrators
Jan 2004 - Present • 22 years 10 months

Partner
King & Wood Mallesons
Jan 1999 - Sep 2017 • 18 years 8 months
Senior Associate
Mallesons Stephen Jaques
Jul 1995 - Dec 1998 • 3 years 5 months

Partner
King & Wood Mallesons
Jul 1995 - Sep 2017 • 22 years 2 months
Solicitor and Senior Associate
Allen Allen & Hemsley
Jun 1989 - Jun 1995 • 6 years

BA (Hons) LLB
University of Sydney

MA
University of Warwick
Last checked: 15 May 2026 • Checked with The Law Society of NSW