Cecil possesses a decades-long interest and practical “hands-on” experience in Family Law matters, and for over 25 years ran his own firm in Darwin practising exclusively in Family Law.

In addition to operating a busy practice he chaired numerous community organisations and government committees during his 40 plus years residing in the Northern Territory, particularly those relating to workplace discrimination and Senior Territorians.

Accordingly, Cecil has demonstrated both his desire and ability to focus on the needs of others, and to listen to and help resolve their problems.

On Australia Day 2014 the Darwin City Council bestowed upon Cecil the rare and prestigious award of Darwin Citizen of the Year for 2013, in recognition of his outstanding, long-term contribution to the local community.

Cecil has now relocated to Perth to spend more time with family here, and remains motivated to maintain and extend his expertise and experience in Family Law.

 

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Date of Admission to Practice

26 October 1965 in Queensland

Qualifications

• SAB (Solicitors’ Admission Board)
• Masters of Applied Law (Family Law)
• Diploma in Family Dispute Resolution

Select Experience

Cecil has practised exclusively in the Family Law arena since 1984 and has been involved in a wide range of financial and parenting disputes both as a Barrister (personally presenting the case in Court) and a Solicitor (preparing matters for Barristers to appear). During this time, he also obtained his formal qualification as an Accredited Specialist in Family Law.

Prior to deciding to specialise in Family Law, Cecil practised extensively in Criminal Law, Personal Injury Claims and General Litigation, principally in Darwin.

Cecil is a skilled negotiator, having been a qualified Mediator since 2014. He also has impressive credentials and experience regarding public life, having been Lord Mayor of Darwin between 1980 and 1984 in addition to being a long-standing member of the Australian Local Government Association (including one term as President).

Cecil has also been Chairman of numerous public and private organisations over the years including Darwin Entertainment Centre, in recognition for which he was awarded an Honorary Life membership.

Memberships

• Family Law Practitioners Association of WA
• Law Society of Western Australia