When it matters most,
you need experience
in your corner.

James founded Ashford Legal in 1998 after a decade at two of Sydney's leading commercial firms. His practice focuses on complex commercial disputes, business transactions and corporate advisory work. James has appeared as counsel in the NSW Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, and Federal Court, and is recognised by Chambers & Partners as a leading individual in commercial litigation. Outside the courtroom, he is a visiting lecturer at UNSW Law and a member of the NSW Bar Association Rules Committee.

Sarah joined Ashford Legal in 2011 and became a partner in 2017. She is one of Sydney's most sought-after family lawyers, known for her ability to navigate the most emotionally difficult matters with clarity and compassion. Sarah is an accredited mediator and regularly resolves matters that other firms take to court — saving her clients time, money and stress. She holds a postgraduate certification in child-inclusive practice and is an active member of the Family Law Practitioners Association.

Michael brings 18 years of criminal defence experience to every matter, having represented clients across traffic offences, assault matters, serious drug charges and complex fraud cases. He began his career as a Crown Prosecutor, which gives him an invaluable understanding of how the other side thinks. Michael is available 24 hours a day for urgent criminal matters including bail applications and police station attendance. He is known for his calm under pressure and his ability to cut through to what matters in any case.

Emma leads Ashford Legal's property and conveyancing practice, having handled over 1,200 transactions across residential and commercial property in her eight years at the firm. She advises buyers, sellers, developers and investors, and is particularly experienced in off-the-plan purchases, commercial leasing and strata title matters. Emma is known for her meticulous attention to detail and for keeping transactions moving when they stall — clients consistently comment that she makes a stressful process feel manageable.

David joined Ashford Legal in 2016 after working in estate planning at a national firm. He specialises in complex estate planning for high-net-worth individuals and business owners, including testamentary trusts, business succession structures and contested estates. David has appeared in the NSW Supreme Court (Equity Division) in estate disputes and is known for constructing plans that genuinely protect his clients' intentions — even when family circumstances are complex. He also advises trustees and executors on their legal obligations.