Craig Chapman

James established JCL in 1992 as a specialist practice in commercial litigation and insolvency. Driven by a desire to achieve positive outcomes for his clients, James’ focus has always been on effective and efficient problem resolution. By establishing his own firm, James has also pursued his desire to help younger lawyers learn the art of law and problem solving. James has a broad range of legal experience, with extensive experience in commercial litigation and insolvency. He has acted...

Justin Raiteri is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Leasing Law and Real Property Law. Justin, who practices law in Brisbane, Australia, has been recognized since 2021. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Justin is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Terry McCormick is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Insurance Law, Motor Vehicle Law and Personal Injury Litigation. Terry, who practices law in Brisbane, Australia, has been recognized since 2020. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Terry is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Madeline acts for aged care providers, retirement living operators and disability service providers, with a particular focus on regulatory compliance, administrative law and dispute resolution. Madeline provides practical advice to aged care providers on how to manage complex regulatory issues and respond to administrative decisions. She also frequently advises providers about managing critical incident investigations and acts for providers in coronial investigations and inquests. In the reti...

Dan is a Queensland Law Society Accredited Family Law Specialist and Director at BGM Family Lawyers , an award-winning family law firm based on the Gold Coast. With over 20 years of experience, Dan has guided thousands of individuals and families through separation and divorce, providing clarity, compassion, and practical solutions during some of life’s most challenging moments. Throughout his career, Dan has represented a diverse range of clients, including business owners, entrepreneu...

Michael has 20 years’ experience in construction law and litigation obtained at firms in Australia, London, and in-house at some of Australia’s leading contractors. Michael’s advice is clear, pragmatic and considered. His comprehensive understanding of how major contractors operate, based on his own experience, gives him an appreciation of how legal and commercial risks fit within the bigger picture. He has also been involved in many high profile and complex construction dis...

Alison is a Partner of our Family and Relationship Law practice who works exclusively with HG Private clients. Alison specialises in complex property and other financial matters arising from relationship breakdowns. She also advises on international family law matters, such as international financial matters and international issues relating to children, including relocation and child abduction. Alison is an Accredited Specialist (Family Law), registered Arbitrator under the Family Law Act an...

Mitchell Hauser is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Personal Injury Litigation and Professional Malpractice Litigation. Mitchell, who practices law in Brisbane, Australia, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Mitchell is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Richard Cowen is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Insolvency and Reorganization Law and Litigation. Richard, who practices law in Brisbane, Australia, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Richard is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

John McKenna QC has been in practice at the commercial bar in Queensland for over 30 years, including over 18 years within the ranks of senior counsel. He has a particular interest in appellate and legally complex matters. Mr McKenna is also a Nationally Accredited Leading Mediator, with over 15 years of experience in the mediation and expert determination of commercial disputes. He graduated from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Arts (majoring in economics) and a Bachelor of L...