Disrupting Tradition Innovative Strategies in Family & Estate Law
James d'Apice
Keynote Speaker – Business and Personal Development Stream
Principal Lawyer, Gravamen
Admitted as a solicitor in 2008, and after a decade and a half working at other firms, including as director of a national firm, James is the founder and principal lawyer of Gravamen, a leading boutique corporate law firm.
Commercial litigation forms the backbone of James’ practice; however, over time, James has found himself increasingly providing advice on his clients’ conduct outside of court. James’ specialty is resolving disputes between co-owners, whether that resolution is by way of contested litigation or negotiated agreement. Practising in this area has required James to develop an expertise in the law relating to shareholder disputes, partnership disputes, and disputes between trustees and beneficiaries.
James is the creator and presenter of ‘Coffee and a Case Note’, a series of online videos and podcast episodes that sees James summarise up-to-the-minute cases in his specialty area and present them to the camera over a cup of coffee. His method combines approachability and rigour.
Spotting the Overlap
Learn how shareholder disputes intersect with family law matters and why awareness of these remedies strengthens client outcomes
Practical Understanding
Gain clarity on corporate oppression, derivative actions, and just and equitable winding up through real case examples.
Strategic Intergration
Discover how to harmonise corporate and family law issues, ensuring you provide holistic advice when company disputes arise in family breakdowns.
Business Besties or Bitter Rivals? The Partnership Predicament
Lawyers often find themselves advising clients whose wealth is tied up in private companies, trusts, and complex corporate structures.
When disputes arise between shareholders, the consequences can ripple into family law proceedings — yet these remedies are often overlooked. This session demystifies three core shareholder dispute remedies — corporate oppression, derivative actions, and just and equitable winding up — and explores how they can impact your clients’ matters. Using practical case studies, we’ll unpack how to identify issues early, understand the remedies available, and harmonise corporate law with family law strategy.
Attendees will walk away with insights to level up their advice and protect their clients’ interests when family breakdown collides with boardroom battles.