Commencing his Articles in March 1976, 2 months after the Family Law Act commenced operation, Peter has been at the cutting edge in the development of family law in Australia. His experience over the last 40 years enables him to quickly identify the relevant issues and to focus on solutions. He is no stranger to all facets of family law litigation, from pro bono parenting disputes through to complex financial third-party proceedings. He was involved in the landmark High Court case of Ascot Investments v Harper which defined third party rights.

He would prefer to craft a settlement for the benefit of the parties in the long run. His mantra is to help couples to disengage and maintain a relationship after settlement for the long term benefit of the family.

Peter was instrumental in the establishment of Specialist Accreditation. In 1986 he was appointed inaugural Chairman of the Advisory Committee to the Accreditation Board for Law Specialists in Victoria. Family Law was the first Specialist Accreditation offered in Australia. 

He has presented countless papers nationally to lawyers, accountants and financial planners, focusing on how to provide their clients with practical solutions. He particularly enjoys the interaction between family law, asset protection and succession planning by using Financial Agreements, better known as prenuptial agreements.

• Accredited Specialist in Family Law (1989).

• Over 40 continuous years (from 1978) instructing law graduates on Family Law at the Leo Cussen Institute of Victoria.

• Trained Collaborative lawyer.

• Trained Mediator.

• Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers, (By invitation only).

• Member of the Family Section of the Law Council of Australia.

• The Family Law Practice Manual (since 1985). Initially published by the Leo Cussen Institute of Victoria and now in its 6th edition on line.

• Family  Law Financial  Settlements – Law Book  Company 1984.

• Tax Issues in Family Law: The difference between Hacking and Carving (first published 1996. Now in its 12th edition.

• The Family Breakdown chapter in the CCH Master Financial  Planning  Guide.

• Numerous papers presented to lawyers. accountants and financial planners.