Michael began his illustrious career by commencing his articles of clerkship at Minter Ellison, one of the most prestigious firms in the Asia Pacific region. He has been with Bennett & Philp for over 20 years, perfecting his practice in corporate advisory, contract and property law issues, intellectual property protection and succession planning.
Corporate Law
Michael’s background in this area includes advising on shareholders agreements, disputes and rights, enforcing and restructuring company constitutions, privatisations, board/meeting procedures, capital raisings including IPOs, employee share participation and corporate governance in relation to directors’ duties and rights.
Michael possesses in-depth knowledge on Corporations Act, ASX Listing Rules and recommendations and ASIC and APRA guidelines.
Commercial Law
Michael has acted for both national and international businesses in relation to contractual disputes, franchising, manufacturing and supply agreements, outsourcing & service agreements, loan agreements, all types of financing and granting of security interests, real property and chattel leasing and many different types of commercial contracts.
Michael also acts in relation to the sale and acquisition, re-structuring and establishment of both large and small businesses as well as mergers and demergers.
He has acted for and against insurance companies in litigation and commercial matters.
Trusts Law
In this role, Michael is often called upon to act in matters involving complex trust structures and the disposition of trust assets. He has worked with unit and discretionary trusts as well as advised on express, implied and constructive trusts.
Michael has a comprehensive knowledge of the statutory provisions, common law and equitable principles, governing the creation and execution of trust deeds and the taxation implications associated with trusts as well as the operation and winding up of them.
Property Law and Succession Planning
Michael regularly undertakes work for clients in respect of their property dealings. He advises
on easements and other property rights under common law, the Property Law Act,
Land Titles Act (Qld), building schemes, covenants, land titles and the sale and acquisition of of commercial and industrial land.
Michael’s work in succession planning involves complex planning and structuring and the administration of complicated testamentary instruments and advice on the rules of intestacy in relation to gifts and the vesting of interests.
Michael acts on behalf of city councils, large corporate and commercial entities, SME’s, trade suppliers, property developers, private individuals, financiers, accountancy firms and credit unions. He has represented his clients in significant cases before the superior courts in Queensland including the Full Federal Court and the High Court of Australia.
Professional Affiliations
Queensland Law Society (QLS)
