EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE
Karan’s expertise is in insurance and construction-adjacent disputes, regularly acting for statutory authorities and insurers in complex matters before VCAT, the County Court, and the Victorian Court of Appeal. He is experienced in matters involving builder insolvency, defective and incomplete works, policy interpretation, and regulatory enforcement, with a strong track record in both advisory and litigation roles.
He is frequently engaged as sole instructing solicitor on high-stakes proceedings, managing all aspects of case strategy, and submissions. Karan’s approach is practical and outcome-driven. He is known for clear communication, disciplined file management, and delivering solutions that align with client objectives and commercial realities.
Karan’s clients include statutory authorities, municipal building surveyors, and major insurers. He is trusted for his ability to navigate multi-party disputes, provide targeted regulatory advice, and guide clients through mediation, hearing preparation, and settlement negotiations. His experience extends to Owners Corporation litigation, property damage claims, and product liability recovery actions.
He
known for steady, practical leadership on complex, multi‑party claims. He
frames early case theory around coverage and liability, sequences evidence with
a view to achieve early resolution, and keeps client objectives front‑of‑mind.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
- Court of Appeal Proceeding: Victorian Building Authority v Fall-Armytage, overseeing strategy, submissions, and counsel coordination in a matter with sector-wide implications
- County Court Proceeding: Fall-Armytage v Victorian Managed Insurance Authority [2025] VCC 709 (Reported), concerning building defects and policy interpretation.
Karan M. Patel, ‘Are the Walls Strong Enough? Assessing the Strength of Protections Under International Investment Treaties for International Construction Projects’ (2022) 38 Construction Law Journal 227.