Direct Access Barrister
Advocacy that listens
Michael is a specialist barrister practising exclusively in family law — both public and private — with a focus on resolving disputes that matter most to families.
He regularly represents local authorities in the public care jurisdiction and acts in complex private cases involving financial remedies, property, and children. His practice also extends to private conflicts that overlap with family life, including contested inheritances, estate disputes, and claims under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (TOLATA) and the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
Dual-qualified in Australia and England & Wales, Michael brings over a decade of experience across two common law jurisdictions. Before relocating to the UK, he practised as a family and estate solicitor in Sydney and Melbourne, giving him a rare depth of insight into cross-border and comparative family law.
Michael’s approach blends legal precision with empathy, candour, and practical strategy. He believes that effective advocacy begins with listening — understanding each client’s story before shaping a tailored solution that is both creative and grounded in reality.
Areas of Practice
Public law children
Private law children disputes (including high-conflict and international cases)
Complex financial remedies and property disputes
TOLATA/cohabitation and Inheritance Act claims
Domestic abuse and injunctions
Contact Me
New Court Chambers
Temple, London
EC4Y 9BE
clerks@newcourtchambers.com
+44 20 3582 7123
Areas of Practice
Children (Private)
When parents separate, disputes can arise over living arrangements, contact, schooling, religion, medical decisions, finances, or even international relocation.
I provide clear, tailored advice to help you find the best outcome for your children’s unique circumstances—always keeping their welfare and best interests at the heart of every case.
Finances & Property
Reaching a financial settlement is rarely simple. I cut through the complexity with clear, practical advice and a commercial, realistic approach.
Each case is different. I offer objective, tailored guidance to help you make confident decisions, while clients value my straightforward manner and balanced perspective.
International Family Law
London is home to many international families, bringing added legal and practical challenges, which require practical (and early) consideration.
I have extensive experience with cross-border family law: jurisdiction disputes, foreign asset and enforcement issues, international relocation and child abduction, and public law cases with an international element—including international adoption.
What is Direct Access?
The Direct Access (also known as ‘Public Access’) scheme allows members of the public to instruct (hire) barristers directly without first instructing a solicitor or other lawyer.
I have undertaken specialist training to allow me to take on a Direct Access clients. Please see my essential Q&As on Direct Access below:
Get in Touch
Have more questions about me and how I can help you?