With our real-world understanding, nationally-recognised expertise, and straightforward advice, we’ll guide you through any legal challenges. Big or small. Complex or simple. Start to finish.
We’re with you. We’re your first point of contact and your trusted adviser providing the best legal advice and guidance because we care.
We picked the most highly specialised and talented lawyers. Meet the team.
Stipe Vuleta.
Managing Director.
- Practice Area
- Litigation & Restructuring
- Expertise
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution Insolvency & Restructuring Class Actions Tax Planning
- stipe.vuleta@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- +61 2 6188 3600
He’s almost always the youngest person in the room but when Stipe speaks, even the oldest hands listen. Stipe has earned the gratitude and respect of many established company directors and individuals who he has helped through financial hardship, insolvency, bankruptcy and business reconstruction.
He speaks fluent accountancy and insolvency practitioners enjoy his repartee on topics ranging from extending convening periods or remuneration approval to recovering voidable transactions and public examinations. With a pedigree that boasts large British and Australian multinationals across the consumer goods, manufacturing and retail space, Stipe has worked on complex and high-profile cases that most lawyers will only ever read about. His professional mantra is that being a lawyer is easy, but being a good lawyer is hard.
Stipe leads our insolvency and restructuring division which focusses on insolvency, bankruptcy, restructuring and business reconstruction, tax disputes and shareholder and co-owner disputes and commercial debt recovery, serving clients across the entire nation, from Canberra, Sydney, Newcastle, Perth and online.
We know Stipe is better than good. He’s won many awards and accolades for being both young and quick-witted, so if you need the best and brightest to rescue your distressed assets, Stipe’s your man (unless someone whisks him away for a coffee, and then you may find he’s distracted for a minute or two).
Mark North.
Chairman.
- Practice Area
- Corporate & Commercial
- Expertise
- Corporate & Commercial Law Intellectual Property Tax Planning
- mark.north@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- +61 2 6188 3600
Mark firmly believes that his role is finding the legal answers to fulfil his clients’ greatest commercial desires.
His wealth of experience and deft touch makes his services a magnet for major national and international corporations and he has acted for industry heavyweights Goldman Sachs, Babcock & Brown, P&O and Sirtex Medical Limited, fashion brand Oroton, national sporting body Cricket Australia, and the largest video game publisher in the world, Electronic Arts.
A towering figure both figuratively and literally, Mark has represented a US supercomputer company in tenders to supply their products to overseas governments, conducted legal and IP audits in New Zealand for major manufacturing and technology companies, and ushered in new corporate structures and governance procedures for numerous national industry representative and not-for-profit bodies including ANCAP, APPEA, and the Australian Automobile Association.
Whether it is working on the international acquisition of a major manufacturing business, establishing a global licencing network for a breakthrough technology, or working as board member for multiple major national healthcare organisations, Mark is known for forging concrete results for his clients out of the toughest of situations.
Mark is the Chairman of the ACT branch of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF Australia), a director on the board of the National Heart Foundation of Australia (ACT Division), and is the Chairman of all our board meetings here at Chamberlains.
Angela Backhouse.
Director.
- Practice Area
- Employment, Commercial, Wills & Estates
- Expertise
- Workplace Law Private Wealth Law Corporate & Commercial Law Wills & Estate Planning Estate Administration Property Law
- angela.backhouse@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- +61 2 6188 3600
Angela has over 10 years’ experience as a commercial and property solicitor and has been involved in a wide range of matters including conveyancing, corporate/business transactions, commercial litigation, bankruptcy & insolvency, wills and probates, and financial services.
Angela focusses in servicing the wide ranging legal needs of business operators and owners and takes a commercial and common sense approach to giving legal advice.
Originating from Araluen NSW, a small country town near Braidwood with a population of around 200 people. From her small town origins Angela understands the importance of building and maintaining good relationships with everyone she has dealings with.
Angela values the importance of education and supports students in various aspects. For many years Angela has been working as a mentor for the ANU Legal Workshop providing guidance to law students who want to be admitted to practice law. Angela is also the President of the Braidwood Preschool Committee.
Angela believes that education about the law should not be limited to law students. There are so many small business owners who don’t have access to education about their legal obligations and advice about how best to set up and operate their business. It is for this reason that Angela also regularly volunteers at the Legal Advice Clinic for Small Business in Canberra, operated by the University of Canberra, in conjunction with Legal Aid ACT.
Angela was the 2017 Canberra Business Woman of the Year.
Angela has extensive experience in various property related transactions, business transactions, complex wills and estates planning matters, and employment law.
Michael Terry-Whitall.
Director.
- Practice Area
- Litigation - Building & Construction
- Expertise
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution Building & Construction Law
- michael.tw@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- +61 2 9264 9111
Since becoming a lawyer, Michael carved an impressive career predominantly in construction litigation at large commercial law firms. Recognised as a leader in the field of Building and Construction Law, Michael founded the Chamberlains Law Firm Sydney office, and heads our Building and Construction Division nationally.
As an accredited adjudicator under the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW), Michael regularly determines disputes under the legislation (as well as advising clients) and is responsible for annotating the Australian Capital Territory SOP Act on behalf of Thomson Reuters. Michael acts for all sectors of industry, including residential construction, developments, commercial projects and civil infrastructure projects. Michael acts on behalf of a range of clients across industry, from small residential builders to national Tier 1 construction businesses.
Michael is also a member of the Society of Construction Law Australia, and clients rave about his ability to deliver plain English advice and his tenacity in pursuing or defending claims. Michael’s experience as an advocate and as an adjudicator assists him to consistently deliver exceptional results to his clients.
When not practicing law, Michael maintains an avid interest in sport (particularly the NRL and his beloved Wests Tigers) and can usually be found playing sport, watching sport or thinking about sport.
Lachlan McBride.
Director.
- Practice Area
- Insurance & Dispute Resolution
- Expertise
- Insurance Law Litigation & Dispute Resolution
- lachlan.mcbride@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Lachlan has extensive experience as a commercial litigator, with a focus on insurance and debt recovery related issues. He has demonstrated expertise in litigation involving insurance, heavy motor and transport issues, debt recovery, contractual interpretation, corporations law, and commercial fraud.
Lachlan has advised and assisted in a number of high profile litigation matters. He understands the impact litigation has on the individuals and businesses involved and provides professional, tailored advice to help his clients in their time of need.
Jon May.
Director.
- Practice Area
- Compensation & Estate Litigation
- Expertise
- Injury & Compensation Estate Administration Class Actions
- jon.may@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Jon has been a lawyer in the Australian Capital Territory since 2007, during which time he has run some of the largest litigation in the ACT.
Jon has extensive advocacy experience and routinely appears before the Federal Court of Australia, the ACT Supreme Court and ACT Magistrates Court as a solicitor advocate.
Jon applies a practical client-focused approach to each case, which means that he works closely with his clients to achieve the best result in each case. This approach is borne out of Jon’s ability to problem solve difficult legal issues in highly litigious circumstances.
Jon is known for his ability to run complex estate litigation matters and also medical negligence claims. He has run some of the most complex medical negligence litigation in the ACT and in doing so has achieved many great results for his clients.
Harold O’Brien.
Director.
- Practice Area
- Property, Corporate & Commercial
- Expertise
- Property Law Corporate & Commercial Law Conveyancing
- harold.obrien@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Harold has over 20 years’ experience working in the areas of property and corporate & commercial law and has extensive knowledge across commercial property, media, retail, commercial, and telecommunications matters.
He has acted and advised on: multiple major facility management agreements, data center and telecommunications leases with licences involving some of the world’s largest information technology companies, commercial-, industrial- and retail property acquisitions, as well as joint ventures, mergers and business acquisitions.
Alison McNamara.
Director.
- Practice Area
- Compensation & Estate Litigation
- Expertise
- Injury & Compensation Estate Administration
- alison.mcnamara@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Alison has a background predominantly in the areas of civil, commercial and estate litigation, having handled matters in a variety of Courts throughout ACT and NSW.
Alison provides advice in relation to personal injury law and can assist you in seeking compensation for injuries arising from medical negligence, traffic and workplace accidents, including bullying and psychological injury claims.
She understands the devastating effect of an injury upon not only your life, but also your family members and is passionate about standing up for everyday people in the fight to obtain justice. Alison combines this compassion with skill and experience in obtaining the best possible result for her clients.
Alison is highly regarded by her clients for taking the time to build relationships and explain the often complicated legal process in a straight-forward manner.
Ben Hatte.
Director.
- Practice Area
- Property & Commercial
- Expertise
- Property Law Corporate & Commercial Law Conveyancing
- ben.hatte@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- +61 2 6188 3600
Ben leads the firm’s Property practice and is dedicated to providing quality legal service to his clients.
Ben is an expert in all aspects of property law, and whether you are a first time home buyer or sophisticated investor or builder, Ben will guide you effortlessly through the transaction. Ben brings a determination and enthusiasm to the firm that draws heavily on technical competence, attention to detail, commercial acumen and client satisfaction.
Ben also has a keen interest in estate planning and his practice involves collaborative planning and implementation with accountants and financial advisors in order to meet clients’ needs.
Ben is a dedicated and efficient lawyer and is valued highly by his clients and peers.
James d’Apice.
Director.
- Practice Area
- Litigation & Restructuring
- Expertise
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution Insolvency & Restructuring Intellectual Property
- james.dapice@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- +61 2 9264 9111
James is a corporate and commercial litigator based primarily in Chamberlains’ Sydney office. However, he spends much of the week working from his home on the NSW Central Coast.
In 2018, after a decade in the profession, James kicked off a revolutionary series of videos called “Coffee and a Case Note” giving casual, brief reports on recent legal cases over a cup of coffee. The series continues to this day. It is an approach that has been occasionally mimicked, though never for very long.
Aside from managing a YouTube channel, Instagram page, Twitter account, Facebook page, TikTok page and podcast sharing knowledge about recent decisions, James also regularly gives talks and papers for leading legal education providers and universities.
However, sharing his legal knowledge far and wide is not the only string to his bow. James also prides himself on being approachable.
While knowledge is all well and good, approachability is fundamental to James’ practice. Whether he’s before a judge, dealing with an opponent, assisting a colleague, or advising a client – he prides himself on making sure the right message gets through.
His approachability, combined with his knowledge, sees James regularly recognised as a prominent member of the legal profession.
James uses his skills to help companies, trusts and partnerships (and the people in and around them like directors, trustees, shareholders, partners and beneficiaries) protect and, where necessary, project their interests. This will often involve Court work where James is equally happy “on his feet” before the judge, or serving as part of a team, along with a barrister or two.
In his off time, you might find James recording his horror movie podcast “Spooko” or reminiscing about the days when he used to make rap music.
Gary Patterson.
Special Counsel
& Associate Director.
- Practice Area
- Advocacy, Equity & Statutory Compensation
- Expertise
- Advocacy, Equity & Statutory Compensation Injury & Compensation
- gary.patterson@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Gary has been a practising solicitor since 1976, after graduating in Arts and Law from the University of Sydney. He undertakes work on behalf of the NSW Trustee and Guardian and the State Legal Representation Office, as well as private sector clients. Gary also appears as a solicitor advocate in proceedings before ICAC, PIC and other regulatory tribunals.
Gary is an Accredited Specialist in Advocacy, Dispute Resolution, and Personal Injury Law, and an Assessor and DRS Decision Maker of the Claims Assessment and Resolution Service (CARS), appointed by the State Insurance Regulatory Authority of NSW.
He is a member of the Law Society Specialist Accreditation Dispute Resolution Committee and Personal Injury Advisory Committee, and is accredited as a Mediator by the NSW Law Society.
Gary has been an Arbitrator in the Supreme Court, District Court and the Local Court, is a member of the Council of Australian Tribunals, and was a part-time tutor in the Faculty of Law at the University of Western Sydney.
Kellie White.
Associate Director.
- Practice Area
- Property & Construction
- Expertise
- Conveyancing Property Law
- kellie.white@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- +61 2 6188 3600
Grounded, pro-active and thorough, Kellie is exactly the conveyancer you want dealing with the intricacies of buying or selling a property.
Kellie handles large volumes of ACT conveyancing like no other. Kellie seamlessly prepares, organises and tracks the mountains of paperwork sometimes required in transactions and, importantly, is able to explain the conveyancing process in plain English.
With a background in real estate, Kellie’s stable of repeat clients is a testament to her experience, client service and the speed with which she gets the job done.
Sayward McKeown.
Associate
Director.
- Practice Area
- Litigation - Insolvency & Reconstruction
- Expertise
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution Insolvency & Restructuring Equine Law
- sayward.mckeown@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- +61 2 6188 3600
Sayward’s practical, methodical and focused approach to legal practice consistently brings her clients the results they seek.
These are traits she has cultivated not only through studying the law, but from her background in equine science and her work in the horse industry, where efficiency and commerciality are also key issues for clients.
In addition to her insolvency work with personal clients, SMEs and insolvency practitioners, Sayward heads up Chamberlains’ specialist equine law service.
One of the few Canberra-based specialists in this field, Sayward offers legal advice on everything from buying and selling horses to dispute resolution.
She is also a keen dressage rider and is producing her own young dressage prospect.
Gillian Yeend.
Associate
Director.
- Practice Area
- Family Law
- Expertise
- Family Law
- gillian.yeend@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Gillian is an accredited Family Law specialist, having practised exclusively in Family Law for 18 years. Gillian has extensive experience in all areas of family law and has a reputation for achieving comprehensive and practical outcomes that are tailored to the individual needs of her clients.
Gillian is firmly committed to exploring out of court solutions for her client’s and is experienced in mediation, collaborative law and arbitration. If your matter is unable to be resolved without going to Court, Gillian can support you through the process as a highly skilled Solicitor Advocate who regularly appears in the Family Law Courts in Canberra, Newcastle and Sydney.
Gillian has a particular expertise in complex parenting matters including relocation and international issues, property matters including restructuring commercial interests, preparation of Financial Agreements including child support matters, surrogacy matters, and family violence Orders matters.
Michael Lalji.
Special Counsel.
- Practice Area
- Litigation & Restructuring
- Expertise
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution Insolvency & Restructuring Building & Construction Law
- michael.lalji@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Michael has extensive experience in resolving commercial disputes, particularly those arising from personal and corporate insolvency. Michael regularly acts for insolvency practitioners, companies, directors, related parties and creditors and applies his comprehensive knowledge of insolvency laws to provide accurate and straightforward advice.
Jeremy Kennedy.
Special Counsel.
- Practice Area
- Work Health & Safety, Employment Law
- Expertise
- Workplace Law Litigation & Dispute Resolution
- jeremy.kennedy@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Jeremy Kennedy is nationally recognised for his expertise in managing serious workplace incidents and complex employment issues. He represents employers in the mining, construction and manufacturing industries throughout Australia and regularly provides advice and training to boards in relation to compliance with work health and safety laws.
Jeremy has 30 years of legal experience as a specialist workplace, employment and industrial relations lawyer with a focus on work health and safety, serious incident management and prosecutions by safety regulators. Jeremy has been acknowledged in 2018 by Doyle’s Legal Guide as a leading WHS lawyer nationally, and in 2022 as highly recommended in the area of labour law by Best Lawyers International Legal Guide.
Jeremy also has broad experience dealing with Commercial Litigation matters. He acts in the District and Supreme Courts in NSW, and the Federal Court in Commercial Dispute matters, including:
- Partnership and shareholder disputes
- Breach of non-disclosure and confidentiality/restraint agreements
- Matters seeking injunctive relief, equitable remedies and damages
He has also sought and obtained elusive remedies such as Mareva Injunctions (civil asset freeze orders) and Anton Piller Orders (civil search and seizure orders) on behalf of his clients.
Jeremy is an astute negotiator, strategist and advocate who is respected and highly regarded in this field. He is considered one of Australia’s leading and most experienced WHS lawyers.
Ashleigh Blewitt.
Special Counsel.
- Practice Area
- Private Wealth Law
- Expertise
- Wills & Estate Planning Private Wealth Law Estate Administration
- ashleigh.blewitt@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Ashleigh’s primary focus is private wealth law which encompasses estate and succession planning, estate administration, wealth protection and taxation advice, property structuring, estate litigation and superannuation law.
As a trusted adviser, Ashleigh has expertise in preparing holistic plans for her clients. From assisting clients with advice regarding the structuring of assets at the initial accumulation of wealth phase through to the protection of assets and ultimately distribution of assets at death, Ashleigh works with her clients to create robust, protective and tax effective plans.
Ashleigh creates estate plans that maintain lasting legacies for her clients. Ashleigh counsels her clients in a calm and professional manner and assists them with developing and implementing estate plans that help mitigate risks such as family acrimony and estate contestation. Ashleigh also guides her clients through important tax considerations to better facilitate inter-generational wealth transfers and to assist future generations grow their wealth.
Ashleigh has assisted clients with the implementation of special disability trusts to provide for beneficiaries with severe disabilities, the drafting of bespoke trusts that capacitate the specific tailored needs of her clients and the formalisation of philanthropic objectives through the establishment of charitable trusts. Ashleigh advises clients on matters relating to grants of probate, letters of administration and resealing of foreign grants. She guides her clients through the transition from executor to trustee and provides advice to attorneys and guardians in relation to their duties and obligations.
In 2019, Ashleigh was shortlisted as a finalist in the Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 awards in the Financial Services category. She has previously worked in the areas of criminal law, debt recovery and personal injury law. Ashleigh holds a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Science majoring in Psychology from the University of Wollongong and a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from the College of Law. She is admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of New South Wales and the High Court of Australia.
Ashleigh’s excellence is also reflected in her achievement of being listed as a Rising Star for leading lawyers under 40 in the field of Wills, Estates & Succession Planning Law in NSW and ACT.
Click here to book a 15 min complimentary consultation with Ashleigh.
Linda Katnic.
Special Counsel.
- Practice Area
- Intellectual Property
- Expertise
- Intellectual Property
- linda.katnic@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- +61 2 9264 9111
- Mobile
- +61 408 162 060
Linda is a registered Patent and Trade Mark attorney who has experience across a variety of intellectual property sectors and brings a strategic focus to her advice. Linda has worked with large multi-national organisations, as well as small to medium sized businesses and individuals.
Linda enjoys delivering tailored advice to her clients in all aspects of patent, trade mark and design filing and prosecution.
Caroline Nicholas.
Special Counsel.
- Practice Area
- Insurance & Dispute Resolution
- Expertise
- Insurance Law Litigation & Dispute Resolution
- caroline.nicholas@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Caroline practices for insurers and brokers, and individual clients providing strategic and commercial advice for plaintiff and defended matters. Caroline has extensive experience preparing matters for litigation and appearing across all jurisdictions to advocate for her clients.
She specialises in property and motor vehicle damage claims whilst also advising on NCAT and Land & Environment Court matters. Caroline has a wealth of knowledge advising insurers, clients and brokers on indemnity, policy interpretation, non-disclosure, misrepresentation and fraud.
Caroline always strives to achieve the best results for her clients.
Matthew Wells.
Special Counsel.
- Expertise
- Building & Construction Law
- matthew.wells@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Matthew has practiced in building and construction space for over 15 years.
Matthew acts for owners, owners corporations, builders and developers in a range of building and construction disputes including defective building work claims, howe warranty insurance claims, claims under the Building and Constructions Industry Security of Payment Act, professional negligence and contract disputes.
Matthew has a broad exposure and understanding of a range of industry accepted contracts and practices and is stilled at providing front end advice as well as practical and commercial responses to construction contract negotiations and disputes.
Stirling Owen.
Senior Associate.
- Practice Area
- Insurance & Dispute Resolution
- Expertise
- Insurance Law Litigation & Dispute Resolution
- stirling.owen@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 0261883600
Stirling was admitted in 2013 and has since crafted an impressive career across Australia, having practiced in almost every jurisdiction. Stirling’s specialty lies in commercial litigation, an area he has focused on solely since his admission, which shows through his proven track record of major wins against more experienced counsels.
Hugh Smith.
Senior Associate.
- Practice Area
- Litigation - Insolvency & Reconstruction
- Expertise
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution Insolvency & Restructuring
- hugh.smith@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- +61 2 6188 3600
For Hugh litigation lawyers are guardians who, while may not be liked, are the unsung heroes of protecting people from others and sometimes themselves. He describes great lawyers as those who can engage with clients on a personal and intellectual level in order to humanise what can be a lengthy, tedious, frustrating and mechanical process.
As someone who works in a field where framing arguments and steering debates is a constant state of mind, Hugh strives to be true to his own moral code alongside providing his clients with the best legal position.
When not steering debates, Hugh may be found working on his car steering while pursuing his interest in mechanics which was partially fostered after completing a TAFE welding course. He’s also fluent in Spanish, so if anyone needs a Spanish-speaking certified welder and litigation lawyer, Hugh’s your man.
Tihana Nevjestic.
Senior Associate.
- Practice Area
- Insurance & Dispute Resolution
- Expertise
- Insurance Law Litigation & Dispute Resolution
- tihana.nevjestic@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Tihana began her family law career in 2009 before moving to Sydney in 2010 and transferring her skills over to the Commercial Litigation sector.
In 2014, Tihana returned to Perth where she has continued to practice as a family lawyer and a general commercial litigator, appearing in the Magistrates, District, Supreme and Federal Courts, along with the Family Court of Western Australia.
Tihana has extensive experience in both the New South Wales and Western Australian jurisdictions, and she continues to practice in the Commercial Litigation team focusing on insurance and debt recovery matters and all aspects of family law matters.
Tihana possesses expertise in intricate litigation matters, and is an effective negotiator providing her clients with tailored strategies to best suit their needs.
Eliza Carter.
Senior Associate.
- Practice Area
- Property
- Expertise
- Property Law Conveyancing
- Eliza.Carter@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Eliza’s career in property law started in 2016 when she commenced work as a paralegal at a sizeable Canberra-based firm. Since that time, she has been admitted as a solicitor, worked on some of Canberra’s most significant developments and transactions and developed a keen sense of commercial acumen. She can handle just about anything you can throw at her – from residential purchases and sales to commercial matters, developments, titling and strata advice.
Eliza has a particular interest in community living and appreciates the complexities that can naturally flow from collective ownership. She also has a passion for all things New South Wales, including boutique development and rural conveyancing.
Eliza’s approach to property law is always based on empathy and is driven by a desire to build a relationship with her clients. She works in close partnership with her clients, bringing clarity to their legal rights and obligations while striving to achieve the best commercial outcome for them. Her practice is holistic and necessitates collaboration with stakeholders and colleagues alike.
In her free time, Eliza can be found working on her aerial lyra tricks, stealing her friend’s and family’s dogs, or bemoaning the fact that there is no more room on her bookshelf for her new purchase.
Mohamad
Mourtada.
Associate.
- Practice Area
- Property, Wills & Estates
- Expertise
- Property Law Wills & Estate Planning Private Wealth Law Estate Administration
- Mohamad.Mourtada@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Mohamad is an Associate in the Property team. He has gained extensive experience in Property law including conveyancing, leasing and commercial property transactions. He regularly acts on behalf of first-home buyers, investors and developers, with Mohamad also having a keen interest in Wills and Estates.
Mohamad is dedicated to providing technical, commercial and quality legal advice to clients with meticulous care.
Mohamad has a Bachelor of Business and Commerce (Applied Finance) in addition to his Bachelor of Laws. He completed a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice at the College of Law and was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of New South Wales in 2013.
He joined Chamberlains Law Firm in 2019, and has been an essential part of the Property team ever since.
Tim Russell.
Associate.
- Practice Area
- Family Law
- Expertise
- Family Law
- tim.russell@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Tim pursued a career in family law after his own experience in a family law matter, with the purpose of helping others that find themselves in a similar situation. Tim applies this firsthand experience when dealing with clients as he has a clear understanding of the often difficult and emotional circumstances that can arise throughout the course of a family law matter.
Tim is a strong believer in the various alternative dispute resolution options available prior to engaging the court process, in order to achieve a timely and cost-effective outcome.
Tim brings with him two decades of experience in the commercial business world that enables him to deal with various commercial dealings and information in relation to financial settlements.
Tim was also a professional Rugby League player with the Eastern Suburbs Roosters and the Widnes Vikings (UK) in the late 80s and early 90s.
Kayla Newell.
Associate.
- Practice Area
- Corporate & Commercial
- Expertise
- Corporate & Commercial Law
- kayla.newell@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Kayla has been practicing passionately as a lawyer in the Corporate and Commercial field since her admission in 2015, as well as touching on a range of other practice areas including Property Law and Leasing, Wills and Estates.
Kayla is a graduate of the University of Wollongong and eventually left behind the rolling beaches to attend the Australian National University, where she completed a Master’s Degree in Legal Practice. One Master’s Degree wasn’t enough for Kayla, who is always seeking to extend her knowledge of her field and chosen vocation. Kayla is currently undertaking a second Master’s Degree in Applied Law, majoring in Business Law and Transactions, which is due to be completed in 2022.
When Kayla is not balancing study for her second Master’s Degree and delivery of top tier legal advice to her clients, she can be found at fine dining establishments, judiciously pairing her favourite Southern Highlands Pinot Noir with a selection of aged soft cheeses and accoutrements.
Nina Vasiljevic.
Associate.
- Practice Area
- Insurance & Dispute Resolution
- Expertise
- Insurance Law Litigation & Dispute Resolution
- nina.vasiljevic@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 926 49111
Nina completed her Bachelor of Politics and Law degree at Monash University in Melbourne. She began her commercial law career in 2019 with Chamberlains when she re-located to Sydney. Nina is now a commercial litigator in the Insurance and Dispute Resolution Team appearing in the Local, District and Supreme Court of New South Wales, and also the New South Wales Civil Administrative Tribunal. She also has extensive experience in litigating in other jurisdictions including Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania.
Nina is extremely passionate about improving people’s access to the legal system and has volunteered at various Community Legal Organisations including presenting Legal Education Seminars to community organisations. Nina is fluent in all languages spoken in the former Yugoslavia, namely Bosnian, Serbian and Croatian.
Nina has significant experience in litigated matters and provides clients with efficient and effective strategies to achieve their commercial goals.
Neil Bookseller.
Associate.
- Practice Area
- Litigation & Restructuring
- Expertise
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution Insolvency & Restructuring
- neil.bookseller@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- +61 2 6188 3600
Neil started at Chamberlains Law Firm as a paralegal in early 2016, and is now working as a lawyer within the Litigation & Restructuring Team in our Canberra office. He was admitted as a solicitor in the ACT Supreme Court in October 2019 and his areas of specialisation currently include corporate & personal insolvency, debt recovery and commercial litigation (including professional negligence, nuisance and unit title management disputes).
Being one of our youngest solicitors in the office, Neil developed a deep interest in his areas of specialisation at a very young age. He recognises the important role that lawyers play in serving individuals and corporations during times of need, and prides himself in assisting his clients in a creative and efficient manner to resolve their disputes. He has earned the respect of his clients and colleagues, with his hard work and dedication over the years both at university and in our office, earning him a spot as a finalist in the Law Student of the Year category of the 2018 Lawyers Weekly Australian Law Awards.
Neil’s witty humour and enthusiasm in the office is cherished by his colleagues. He is not only the go to litigation lawyer within our Canberra office, but he is also the fire warden and is responsible for running the annual Pool Tournament at Chamberlains Law Firm. During his spare time, Neil is an avid hiker and traveller and he remains deeply involved with his global Hare Krishna community. When not stuck in Canberra because of a pandemic, Neil spends his annual leave with his family between India and Slovenia. He can also fluently speak 4 languages with Croatian as his next mission.
Neil knows that being a good lawyer requires a commitment to ongoing development in this field and he intends to use his high values and passion for his work to carve his own path in this industry.
Sophie Kay-Noble.
Associate.
- Practice Area
- Private Wealth
- Expertise
- Private Wealth Law Estate Litigation Estate Administration
- sophie.kay-noble@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Sophie is an experienced Associate at Chamberlains Law Firm specialising in the area of Private Wealth. She prides herself on delivering a service that is tailored to her clients’ specific needs. With a diligent, considered, and empathetic approach to all cases, Sophie works closely with her clients to achieve their wishes and ensure their best interests are met.
Sophie was admitted as a Solicitor in May 2018 and has extensive knowledge of estate, succession and elder law matters which she gained at boutique law firms in Sydney and on the Central Coast. Sophie has a particular interest in complex estate planning and litigation, as well as assisting vulnerable members of the community and their families.
Whist her experience is predominantly in challenging wills and contested estate matters, Sophie has also practiced across other areas of law, including commercial, civil, property, home building and compensation matters. She has conducted litigation proceedings in the Local Court, District Court, Supreme Court and the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
Sophie holds a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) with a Bachelor of Psychology from Macquarie University and a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from the College of Law. She is admitted to practice in the Supreme Court of New South Wales and the High Court of Australia.
Amelia Coutts.
Associate.
- Expertise
- Family Law
- amelia.coutts@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Amelia Coutts has been practising almost exclusively in family law since being admitted to practise. Amelia is a graduate of the University of Sydney. She has a wide range of experience dealing with property, parenting and divorce matters. Amelia is a highly skilled negotiator and pursues cost-effective solutions without the need to commence court proceedings where possible including through alternative dispute resolution such as mediation or arbitration. Amelia is a highly skilled advocate in cases which proceed to court and has a wealth of knowledge in drafting court documents and preparing matters for court events.
Amelia is also volunteer solicitor at a Community Legal Centre. She has a particular interest in complex parenting matters. She is an experienced representative for vulnerable clients, including those who have experienced family violence.
Amelia is an empathetic and honest communicator. Her clients are kept updated in their family law matter at each stage. In her communications with other practitioners, she advocates for her client’s best interests while also maintaining a commercial and cost-effective approach.
In her free time, you can expect to find Amelia hunting down Sydney’s best sfogliatella (a divine Italian pastry filled with ricotta and candied orange), struggling to stop her standard poodle Sebastian chasing bush turkeys or trying her hand at yet another unsuccessful creative project, French rose in hand.
Isobel Hall.
Associate.
- Practice Area
- Compensation & Estate Litigation
- Expertise
- Injury & Compensation Abuse Compensation Claims
- isobel.hall@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 0261883600
Isobel is a personal injury lawyer based in our Canberra office. Isobel has previously worked exclusively in historic institutional child sexual abuse litigation and is a strong advocate for her clients.
Isobel has completed a Bachelor of Laws with honours at the Australian National University and is admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of the Australian Capital Territory.
Isobel has had experience bringing civil claims in most jurisdictions across Australia. She understands the significant impact an injury can have on an individual’s life and the physical and psychological consequences that follow.
She is aware of the sensitive nature of a personal injury claim and is passionate about seeking justice for her clients and ensuring they receive the compensation, treatment and recognition they are entitled to. Her approach to litigation is centred around building a strong relationship with her client and that ensuring they understand the process of litigation. She is not afraid to stand up for her clients and is a skilled advocate.
Outside of work, Isobel enjoys cooking, Pilates and spending time with her family and friends.
Eoin White.
Associate.
- Practice Area
- Property & Commercial
- Expertise
- Property Law Corporate & Commercial Law
- eoin.white@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Eoin completed a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Asian Studies at the Australian National University in 2018 and joined Chamberlains’ Property and Commercial team in 2021 as our super special associate.
He comes with over seven years of experience in property and commercial law – including in residential conveyancing, retirement villages, large residential developments, construction, land titling and commercial leasing both in the Australian Capital Territory and in New South Wales.
Eoin has a particular interest in construction law and has extensive experience in assisting property developer clients deliver off-the-plan development projects from start to finish, including both small boutique residential developments and large mixed-use developments.
Eoin holds a broad knowledge base of the property industry and prides himself on his personable approach to clients and achieving their desired outcomes.
Eoin speaks Mandarin Chinese and is looking forward to working with the other members of the property team in assisting clients where English may not be their first language.
Antonia Tahhan.
Associate.
- Practice Area
- Workplace & Commercial
- Expertise
- Workplace Law Corporate & Commercial Law
- Antonia.Tahhan@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Antonia has experience across a broad range of corporate and commercial matters, including, commercial and contractual disputes, intellectual property disputes, defamation claims, employment and industrial relations, debt recovery, commercial leasing and ATO disputes.
Antonia utilises her keen eye for detail and aptitude in finding innovative solutions in providing clear, concise and pragmatic advice to ensure she achieves beneficial resolutions to her client’s commercial and legal issues.
Antonia’s comprehensive legal and commercial skill set also allows her to support clients at all stages of their employment relationship including contract and policy review and drafting, performance and conduct issues, termination and redundancy advice and employment issues arising in corporate restructuring and insolvency.
Antonia holds a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Commerce (majoring in Marketing) from Macquarie University and is currently completing her Master of Laws (specialising in Corporate, Commercial and Taxation) at the University of New South Wales.
Elvira Limpid.
Senior Lawyer.
- Practice Area
- Corporate & Commercial
- Expertise
- Corporate & Commercial Law
- elvira.limpid@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
A serial entrepreneur hailing from nine cities and five global financial centres in the world, Elvira leverages her practical commercial experience and global insights to bring pragmatic legal services to her clients.
Elvira has a strong legal portfolio in complex corporate and transactional matters. Elvira has assisted in a number of high-valued M&A transactions across various phases, ranging from private to public acquisitions and in cross-border M&As. Elvira has also worked for a breadth of high-profile clientele, such as:
– Multinational companies – including a company listed on the London Stock Exchange
– Company undergoing IPO
– ASX listed investment company
– Startups (early to scale-up stages)
– Australian bank
– Funds – including venture capital funds and a large retail funds manager with multi-billion dollar assets under management.
Prior to becoming a lawyer, Elvira co-founded two businesses in Singapore, Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur – experiences which strengthened her commercial acumen and gave her first-hand insights into the mechanics of businesses.
Elvira holds a Juris Doctor from the Australian National University in Canberra and a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Philosophy from the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.
Elvira speaks Mandarin Chinese and Bahasa Indonesia.
Norisha Young.
Senior Lawyer.
- Practice Area
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution
- Expertise
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution Insolvency & Restructuring
- norisha.young@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Norisha completed her Bachelor of Laws at Griffith University in Brisbane. She began her career at Chamberlains Law Firm in mid-2020 and now works with the Litigation & Restructuring team at the Canberra office.
Norisha has experience in corporate & personal insolvency, debt recovery and commercial matters, and also has experience across a range of jurisdictions, including New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia and the ACT.
In addition to her experience, she also has a strong understanding of court practices and directions in these jurisdictions and enjoys being involved in complex corporate & personal insolvency matters, with a hope to become a specialist in this area.
Norisha has a strong client focus and is committed to achieving favourable outcomes for clients in a cost-effective and timely matter.
Christopher
Bucknell.
Lawyer.
- Practice Area
- Wills & Estates
- Expertise
- Wills & Estate Planning Private Wealth Law Estate Administration
- Chris.Bucknell@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Christopher completed his Bachelor of Law degree and Communications in Advertising double degree at the University of Canberra. He began practising in 2019 and is now a proud member of the Wills and Estates Team at Chamberlains Law Firm.
As a local Canberran, Christopher is well acquainted with the practical considerations of practice in the ACT and surrounding NSW areas and the complexities that can sometimes arise in cross-jurisdictional matters. Christopher understands what a difficult time any legal proceedings can be, especially when losing a loved one. He finds meaning in helping people when they’re in need and always strives for the smoothest and most stress-free experiences for his clients so they can focus on what matters to them.
Christopher has experience in various fields, from Family Law to Disputed Estates, and his melting-pot of knowledge enables him to think outside the box and implement creative solutions to any legal dilemma.
Sam Keys-Asgill.
Legal Development
Officer.
- Practice Area
- Insolvency & Reconstruction
- Expertise
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution Tax Planning Cryptocurrency Law Insolvency & Restructuring
- Sam.KeysAsgill@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Sam has a Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing) from the University of Wollongong. Before joining Chamberlains as a lawyer in the Commercial, Tax and Litigation teams, Sam previously worked as an M&A Advisor and has advised on numerous large national and international transactions.
As the firms business development officer, Sam works closely with the Chamberlains marketing team to help raise the national profile of Chamberlains, acquire new clients, and expand existing relationships.
Musstafa
Al-Khafaji.
Lawyer.
- Practice Area
- Injury & Compensation - Estate Litigation
- Expertise
- Injury & Compensation Estate Administration
- musstafa.ak@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Musstafa completed a double degree being a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Business in 2019, he was admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of NSW shortly after. He began his career in Injury & Compensation in 2017 and has become a passionate advocate for injured people across Australia but predominately in NSW. Musstafa regularly appears in tribunals and courts representing his client’s best interest at heart.
Musstafa takes every case as if it were his own, implementing professional expertise by providing legal advice in a simplified manner and maintains personal relationships with clients showing passion and constant contact. He has acted in multiple complex claims, appeals to the Supreme Court of NSW and is not shy of a matter if he believes there are reasonable prospects that it could win.
In his everyday dealings Musstafa is a problem solver advising client’s as to the benefits, issues, risks that will arise in the claim and implements innovative methods in mitigating the risks that could arise.
Success for him is knowing that a satisfied client has been serviced to the best of his ability.
Olivia Tostivint.
Lawyer.
- Practice Area
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution
- Expertise
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution Insolvency & Restructuring
- olivia.tostivint@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Olivia began working at Chamberlains as a paralegal within the Newcastle Family Law team in 2019. She was admitted as a lawyer in early 2021 and now works with the Commercial Litigation team in Sydney.
Her areas of expertise currently include defamation, commercial disputes, taxation and intellectual property matters. Olivia enjoys managing the various complexities which arise from the operations of corporate entities, and she is exploring the interconnectedness of front-end and back-end issues that are experienced throughout the life-cycle of a company.
With a Bachelor of Laws (Hons I) and Bachelor of Arts majoring in political science, International Relations and French studies (Distinction), Olivia is open-minded and endeavours to continuously expand her worldview through meaningful discussion, travelling and reading.
In doing so, she is able to meet and surpass the needs of her diverse client base and address the far-reaching concerns within and external to the sphere of commercial litigation.
Outside of the office, Olivia aims to spend her time in the water, exploring her new home in Sydney, and as of the recent pandemic, making rugs!
Isabelle Lee.
Lawyer.
- Practice Area
- Private Wealth Law
- Expertise
- Wills & Estate Planning Private Wealth Law Estate Administration
- isabelle.lee@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Isabelle was admitted to practice by the ACT Supreme Court following her double degree in Law and International Relations at the ANU. A pillar of her team, Isabelle brings with her an unmatched enthusiasm and positive outlook to every matter she is involved in. She specialises in Succession Planning, Estate Administration, Litigation and Insolvency.
Choosing to leave behind a superior climate in her hometown of the Gold Coast, Isabelle settled in Canberra. She was once again rewarded with excellent weather after winning a scholarship to study in Italy, where she perfected her Italian.
When not putting in 110% at work, Isabelle can be found participating in (and winning) breakdancing competitions, or flexing her comedic acting talent on stage in local plays and productions.
Isabelle’s passion to achieve the best result for every client is only matched by her sunniest of dispositions.
Rufus Thomas-Webb.
Lawyer.
- Practice Area
- Compensation
- Expertise
- Injury & Compensation Abuse Compensation Claims
- rufus.thomas-webb@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Rufus obtained his Bachelor of Laws from Deakin University and was admitted to practice on 28 February 2022. Rufus has a background in criminal law and as an Independent Children’s Lawyer paralegal.
Rufus uses his analytical skills to facilitate best possible outcomes for his clients. Working within the personal injury team, Rufus is a strong advocate for those who have suffered harm in any form, but his specialisation is historical sexual abuse cases.
Rufus likes to spend his downtime playing tennis (terribly), skateboarding, hanging out with family and friends and his cat, Theo.
Alex Miglietti.
Lawyer.
- Practice Area
- Property & Commercial
- Expertise
- Property Law Corporate & Commercial Law Conveyancing Workplace Law
- alex.miglietti@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
After completing a degree in linguistics Alex followed his love of language and found his way into the law. Alex believes that the key to success in his practice is to combine passion, creativity and dogged determination with knowledge and critical thinking. He knows that while many people feel intimidated by or frustrated with legal issues, it is his job to make sure that clients are aware of their available choices in everything they do. Since joining the Property Law Team as a paralegal, Alex has built a reputation for broad knowledge and enthusiasm in all things law. While some jibe his reading court judgements “just for fun”, Alex believes that a career as a solicitor should be one of continuous education and self-improvement for the benefit of his clients.
Alex enjoys taking the time to build a personal rapport with his clients to enable them to achieve the best outcomes and make informed decisions, from simple conveyancing matters to complex property issues.
Alex is known around the office for his sharp style and even sharper wit, and firmly believes that good colleagues and a friendly office atmosphere are as essential to the operation of a successful law firm as knowledge and experience. When he’s not working, Alex can be found reading and researching on his wide range of esoteric interests, writing letters with his beloved stationery, managing his two companies and lamenting that he doesn’t live closer to Government House.
Timoclea
Alexandratos.
Lawyer.
- Expertise
- Building & Construction Law
- timoclea.alexandratos@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Timoclea is a Lawyer in the Building and Construction team, practising across front-end commercial contract work and back-end dispute resolution and litigation matters.
Having worked on the NSW Government’s Sydney Light Rail Project and for an award-winning property developer in the United Arab Emirates, Timoclea has the necessary business acumen developed in the construction industry to deliver practical commercial solutions to her clients. Committed to delivering holistic commercial advice, Timoclea builds her skills and knowledge across other commercial practice areas.
Timoclea holds a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Communications.
If you don’t find her in the office, you’ll find her at the Archery Centre perfecting her precision to hit bullseye.
Manling Zhu.
Lawyer.
- Expertise
- Property Law
- manling.zhu@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Since being admitted in 2021, Manling has quickly built a solid reputation amongst clients and colleagues as a reliable and dedicated lawyer and a calm and friendly advisor in property transactions of all types. Manling brings an enviable diligence and a bright, sunny disposition to all her matters and excels in making each of her clients feel as though they are her only client. At work, Manling is valued by her colleagues not only for her competence and intelligence, but for her broad smile and positive attitude. Manling knows that great client outcomes can only be achieved when a great team work together, and has quickly cemented herself as a quintessential team player in the Firm.
When she’s not going above and beyond for her clients and colleagues, you can usually find Manling relaxing by the lake, thankful that she doesn’t have to look after anyone’s pot plants, and wishing she had the resources to continuously adopt a new litter of puppies every week.
Olivia Brennan.
Lawyer.
- Practice Area
- Family Law
- Expertise
- Family Law
- olivia.brennan@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Elinore Rema.
Lawyer.
- Expertise
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution
- elinore.rema@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Candice Pedersen.
Lawyer.
- Practice Area
- Litigation and Restructuring
- Expertise
- Litigation & Dispute Resolution Insolvency & Restructuring
- candice.pedersen@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Emma West.
Conveyancing
Manager.
- Expertise
- Conveyancing Property Law
- emma.west@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Dale McDonald.
Licenced
Conveyancer.
- Expertise
- Conveyancing
- dale.mcdonald@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Sarah Hayman.
Senior Paralegal.
- Practice Area
- Personal Injury
- Expertise
- Injury & Compensation
- sarah.hayman@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Nichole Low.
Conveyancer.
- Practice Area
- Conveyancing
- Expertise
- Conveyancing
- Nichole.Low@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 6188 3600
Friendly and helpful, Nichole is a conveyancer of great repute and skill. Trained and qualified as a solicitor in sunny Malaysia, Nichole combines her former legal knowledge with practical, friendly advice that puts all her conveyancing clients at ease.
Since joining the firm, Nichole has quickly cemented herself as an efficient conveyancer with a knack for client management. Loved by her colleagues for her patience, kindness and can-do attitude, Nichole is as friendly and reliable as they come.
Experienced in all things residential settlements, Nichole understands that it can be stressful for clients and always fights to ensure that her settlements are as seamless as possible.
When she’s not in the office, Nichole can usually be found curled up somewhere comfortable with a good book and a tasty snack.
Katey Bartulovic.
National Finance/
Office Manager.
- Practice Area
- Business Support
- katey.bartulovic@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Katey has over 30 years’ experience working in a legal practice and heads our business support team in Sydney. Although she primarily works in our operations division, she has also taken on the role of Office Manager. Katey undertakes a wide range of responsibilities including HR, IT and equipment, office procedures, as well as dealing with administration.
Laura Hastie.
National Operations
Manager.
- Practice Area
- Business Support
- laura.hastie@chamberlains.com.au
- Phone
- 02 9264 9111
Laura has over 10 years’ experience working in the legal industry. Prior to Chamberlains, Laura worked in international and major Australian law firms, starting as a legal secretary and quickly progressing through to practice management. In her most recent role, she had the opportunity to bolster her interest in the use of technology in the legal industry by working with law firms nationally to roll out legal practice management software, ultimately improving firm efficiencies and advancing technological practices in the legal industry. Laura brings to this role, her experience in creating comprehensive operational frameworks to ensure business needs are met.
Stina Larsson.
Marketing
Manager.