A firm’s long history is relevant inasmuch as it promotes confidence and develops trust. The lessons of the past have helped shape their future direction. Their continued growth builds assurance. At McKean Park while they are proud of their traditional values, their focus is very firmly on the future. That stated, very few law firms in Australia can claim 145 years of continuous operation and few others have part of their original name still in use. Coincidentally, their Associate firm in Sydney - Pigott Stinson, was also established in 1863.

James McKean, who was born in Belfast and came to Australia in 1853 and established the firm in 1863. He was appointed a member of the first Mining Court and later elevated to the positions of President of Lands & Works and Commissioner of Crown Lands and Survey, and later became Minister for Lands in the Victorian Colonial Government.

Harry McKean joined his father's firm in 1898. In 1939 he formed a partnership with Les Park giving rise to McKean & Park. The family tradition continued with Les' sons Richard and Geoff joining the firm in 1966 and 1968 respectively. Both brothers recently retired as partners however Geoff Park remains with the firm as a Consultant.