Stephen von Muenster

Stephen von Muenster, a Partner at von Muenster Legal, is a seasoned solicitor based in Surry Hills, New South Wales. With a career in advertising, communications, marketing, and media law dating back to 1995, Stephen has developed a profound expertise in the intersection of technology and creativity. His interest in emerging technologies fuels his work, advising on disruptor platforms, social media, online reputation management, and artificial intelligence. He is actively involved with the ACCC's Digital Platforms and Ad Tech inquiries, guiding industry and agencies through these complex landscapes. Stephen is adept at navigating the legal challenges agencies face, offering insights into the 2020 AANA Media Buying Agreement's impact on media agencies and advertisers. His role includes facilitating agency mergers and acquisitions, having acted as legal counsel on notable acquisitions across the communications spectrum. His litigation skills are well-established, demonstrated by his success in the Supreme Court of NSW in Ikon Communications v Advangen International Pty Ltd, securing damages and costs for his client regarding unpaid fees. His involvement extends beyond legal representation, serving as a legal adviser to several key industry bodies, including The Advertising Council Australia and the Media Federation of Australia. As a board member of AIMCo, he contributes to shaping the social media influencer industry. Stephen's expertise is regularly showcased through industry presentations and as a guest lecturer at esteemed institutions, sharing knowledge on legal compliance, data privacy, and employment issues in a rapidly evolving world. Stephen's contributions to legal literature include the Digital Media Guide to Legal Compliance in Australia and chapters in International Advertising Law. Consistently engaged with the media and academic realms, Stephen remains a pivotal figure in the dynamic convergence of media, law, and technology.