Experience & Expertise
Ian acts for professionals of all types, but with a focus on legal practitioners who are the subject of litigation or disciplinary investigation. He has acted for some of Australia’s largest law firms in a range of commercial disputes as well as representing barristers and solicitors in all fields to defend civil claims against them and assist them in disciplinary inquiries. Ian’s careful eye for detail and measured advocacy assists individuals through some of the darkest days of their professional lives.
Ian’s strong experience in policy interpretation and drafting means he is often appointed as specialist coverage counsel for large commercial disputes.
Since admission in 1996, Ian has acted for public liability insurers in all manner of claims. His experience in this area gives him a detailed knowledge of procedure, legal issues and developments. Most importantly, Ian deploys these to the client’s advantage, securing early settlements and strong outcomes. A dogged pursuer of recovery options, Ian ensures that even when his clients sustain large losses, all measures are taken to mitigate.
Ian has assisted small organisations and large in responding to Royal Commissions, statutory inquiries and coronial inquests.
Ian’s careful and considered approach to every claim is his hallmark.
Accomplishments
Ian has represented over 100 members of the NSW Bar, from readers to high profile silks, in disciplinary and civil claims. These have involved matters across the breadth of legal practice, including personal injury, criminal law, family law, property disputes, wills and estates and insurance. Ian has developed a profound understanding of the logistical, legal and regulatory framework concerning lawyers in NSW. While Ian has accompanied many of his barrister clients on the legal journey to pleasing and advantageous outcomes, he has also counselled many through adverse outcomes, including being struck from the roll.
Ian has assisted solicitors, from sole traders, to some of Australia’s largest firms, in responding to civil claims and in answering disciplinary investigations.
Ian’s skillset includes handling ultra-sensitive claims for insured medical professionals, including those that arise in Australian Government immigration detention centres, correctional facilities, allied health practices and aged care facilities. He also offers a wealth of experience in Coronial Inquests and inquiries along with high value property damage claims and complex recoveries.
Ian’s approach involves an ethos of ‘work smarter, not just harder’. This sees early, commercially sensible outcomes where possible, as well as the foundations to pursue a resolute defence where necessary.
RECOGNITION
Ranked in the peer-reviewed Best Lawyers® in Australia list for:
- Insurance Law since 2016
- Personal Injury Litigation since 2021.
Ranked as both a Leading and Recommended Lawyer – Professional Indemnity in NSW by Doyle’s Guide since 2021.