EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE

Patrick’s legal career began in statutory and common law workers compensation claims, including latent injuries and specialised coal miners’ compensation. He also worked in the construction sector and in rural general practice, where he became experienced in providing SME advice and succession planning. He also assisted in drafting and preparation of shareholder agreements and easements for the establishment and operation of a large private water scheme in western-NSW.

Patrick’s litigation experience spans across multiple jurisdictions, including the former Workers Compensation Commission (now Personal Injury Commission), both the common law and residual jurisdictions of the District Court of NSW, the Supreme Court of NSW, NSW Court of Appeal, and the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

Patrick’s primary focus is on common law compensation and public liability matters. He strategically manages high volumes of historical abuse claims in accordance with strict client-mandates. Combining his planning and ‘big picture’ thinking from his experience in front-end law with his extensive litigation background, Patrick is known for identifying pragmatic solutions and provides outcome driven advice across a broad portfolio of historical abuse claims and public liability matters.

Patrick  provides early advice to clients by unpacking the merits of a claim and the potential risk exposure with a view to resolving matters as quickly and cost effectively as possible. He is skilled in the effective use of alternative dispute resolution practices to facilitate best case outcomes.

Patrick is known for his approachability and pragmatic advice driven by a keen attention to detail.  

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Patrick assisted in the preparation of the successful special leave application to the High Court of Australia in ADCO Constructions Pty Limited v Goudappel [2014] HCA 18, a significant case involving the effects of the Workers Compensation Legislation Amendment Act 2012 on existing claims for lump sum compensation, which ultimately led to scheme wide ramifications.

Whilst working in rural practice, Patrick assisted in the drafting and preparation of shareholder agreements and easements for the establishment and operation of a joint water scheme funded by landholders in western-NSW which brought regular water supply for stock and domestic purposes across an area of approximately 54,000 ha.