Michael Gapes

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...

Jennifer Douglass is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Insurance Law. Jennifer, 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 Jennifer is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Melanie currently works in the Corporate and Commercial team at Thomson Geer, with a particular focus on Mergers and Acquisitions and Corporate Finance. Melanie has practices in international law firms in Australia and Hong Kong, specialising in cross-border mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, corporate finance, financial regulation and company commercial law.

Andrew Hynd is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Information Technology Law. Andrew, who practices law in Brisbane, Australia, has been recognized since 2019. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Andrew is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Brooke is an established defendant insurance lawyer with over 15 years experience including general and commercial insurance, workers’ compensation, product and public liability, motor vehicle and professional indemnity. She is an experienced advisor, advocate and negotiator, who provides tailored advice and is actively involved in the insurance industry. Over the years Brooke has worked for a broad range of insurers and insureds. Her diverse claims portfolio covers workplace, construct...

Geoff is a Partner and co-manages our Family and Relationship Law practice. He is also a lead Partner of our HG Private practice. Geoff is recognised internationally as one of Australia’s leading family and relationship lawyers. His specialisation includes international family and relationship law, relationship agreements, prenuptial agreements, representation of third parties and high net worth individuals, trusts and property disputes and dispute resolution (particularly arbitration)....

Lyndon is a qualified lawyer, chartered accountant and chartered tax adviser who advises on GST, payroll tax, land tax, income tax, capital gains tax and the establishment of private ancillary foundations. His diverse experience in dealing with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) from an accounting and a legal perspective has given him a valuable insight into the motivation of agencies. Lyndon has acted for clients from diverse backgrounds in a wide range of industries, including the non-pro...

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...

Chris Nyst is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Criminal Defence. Chris, who practices law in Gold Coast, Australia, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Chris is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.

Tony Park is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Insurance Law, Motor Vehicle Law and Personal Injury Litigation. Tony, who practices law in Brisbane, Australia, has been recognized since 2013. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Tony is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.