Background

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.


Awards

2021-fast-firm-award
2021-employer-of-choice-award

Recent articles

Adhering to Obligations in Payment Schedules

27.03.2023

The recent Queensland Court of Appeal decision of Allencon Pty Ltd v Palmgrove Holdings Pty Ltd trading as Carruthers Contracting [2023] QCA 6, highlights for all parties to carefully consider their o....

Read more

Meet our team

Michael Lalji

Special Counsel

Samuel Gobraiel

Associate Director

Casey Powell

Lawyer