Sotheary is a Partner in our Corporate & Commercial Team.
Sotheary helps business owners protect what they’ve built and position themselves for growth. She brings sharp commercial instincts and deep sector expertise to every matter — whether that’s structuring a business sale, negotiating a complex dealer agreement, or resolving a dispute that threatens your bottom line.
Experience & expertise
Sotheary is one of Australia’s leading legal advisers to the automotive industry. She has spent years working alongside motor dealers, dealer councils, and automotive organisations to secure fairer outcomes in their relationships with distributors. Her clients trust her because she understands their industry from the inside — the commercial pressures, the regulatory landscape, and the power dynamics that shape every negotiation.
As a preferred lawyer for leading automotive organisations and dealer councils, Sotheary regularly advises on dealer agreements, the Franchising Code of Conduct, and the unfair contract terms regime. She doesn’t just review contracts — she equips her clients with the knowledge and strategy to improve their bargaining position and achieve more balanced commercial relationships.
Sotheary’s strength lies in her ability to translate complex legal and regulatory frameworks into clear, actionable strategy. She tailors her approach to each client’s industry, commercial objectives, and appetite for risk — delivering straightforward solutions rather than legal complexity. Whether you’re acquiring a business, renegotiating a critical agreement, or navigating a dispute, Sotheary is the adviser who keeps your commercial interests at the centre of every decision.
Work highlights
Sotheary’s practice spans the full lifecycle of business ownership — from structuring and acquiring a business through to day-to-day commercial operations, governance, and exit. Her work is defined by practical, outcome-focused advice that cuts through complexity.
- Transactions and structuring: Sotheary advises on business and share sale transactions, share subscriptions, buy-backs, and financial assistance matters. She conducts rigorous due diligence and negotiates transaction terms designed to protect her clients’ commercial interests and maximise value on completion
- Commercial agreements: From shareholder agreements and buy-sell option deeds to trading documents and security arrangements, Sotheary drafts and negotiates the agreements that underpin strong business relationships — between co-owners, suppliers, customers, and partners
- Automotive and franchise disputes: Sotheary advises on claims arising under the Australian Consumer Law and the Franchising Code of Conduct, including disputes over early termination or non-renewal of dealer agreements. She has a proven track record of helping dealers resolve conflicts and secure outcomes that protect their livelihoods.
- Data and regulatory compliance: Sotheary drafts customer data sharing agreements that achieve transparent, equitable arrangements — helping businesses manage regulatory risk while maintaining commercial flexibility
- Governance and corporate health: Sotheary advises directors and business owners on corporate governance, director duties, and strategic improvements to governance structures — ensuring businesses are well-positioned for sustainable growth
- Education and empowerment: Sotheary delivers practical workshops to dealer clients, demonstrating how to leverage the Franchising Code and the unfair contract terms regime to strengthen their negotiating position. She believes informed clients make better commercial decisions.
Professional background
