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.
Samuel Gobraiel is an Associate Director at Chamberlains Law Firm, specialising in litigation and dispute resolution within the building and construction sector. With deep expertise in the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW), Samuel is a trusted advisor to contractors, developers, and consultants navigating complex legal frameworks and project risks.
Chamberlains’ Building & Construction team, of which Samuel is a key member, supports clients across infrastructure, industrial, commercial, and multi-unit residential projects. Whether representing Tier 1 builders or individual homeowners, Samuel delivers clear, actionable advice tailored to each stage of the construction lifecycle. Samuel’s leadership and litigation success continue to shape Chamberlains’ reputation as a leading firm in construction law, offering clients confidence in navigating regulatory challenges and contractual complexities.
Samuel has led numerous high-stakes matters, including a landmark Supreme Court victory in Sharvain Facades Pty Ltd v Roberts Co (NSW) Pty Ltd, which reaffirmed the primacy of statutory protections over contractual clauses attempting to limit payment rights. His strategic advocacy ensured a $3.2 million claim was upheld, setting a precedent for electronic service of payment claims and reinforcing the integrity of the Act.
He regularly advises on contract disputes, adjudications, and enforcement proceedings, helping clients resolve issues efficiently while safeguarding project viability. Samuel’s approach is both commercially astute and legally rigorous, ensuring outcomes that align with broader business objectives.
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.
Jayden is a trusted Paralegal in the Building & Construction Team at Chamberlains.
He is currently studying a Bachelor of Business / Bachelor of Laws at the University of Technology Sydney.
Keen to expand his knowledge and experience in the world of law, Jayden takes on a variety of responsibilities at Chamberlains. Their day-to-day involves, conducting legal research and gathering relevant information for case preparation, managing case files and maintaining organised records, assisting lawyers during court proceedings, and communicating with clients, witnesses, and court officials to facilitate case progression.
Outside of the office, Jayden enjoys playing golf and going on long runs with his friends.