I started my professional career in 1979 with a Bendigo firm, after graduating from Monash University with a Bachelor Laws and Bachelor of Jurisprudence. I completed my Articles at this firm and was admitted to legal practice.
In the first three years of my career I gained experience in litigation, commercial law, Probate, Wills and estates, property, family law and court appearances. My work included farm sales and purchases, with the coordination of lending in large farm transactions. As well, I managed deceased estates involving issues concerning properties, farm complex inheritance and the impact of Probate Duties.
In 1982 I joined a Geelong firm. My role was focused in the same area of law and I further developed my skills. For example, I acted in the sale of subdivisions for developer, and handled large and difficult estates.
I joined Perpetual Trustees 1986. My role involved the administration of large “VIP” estates, and those that were complicated or in involved disputes.
I went on to become the Senior Manager of Trustee and Financial Services.
- was an Examiner in the Estate Trust Administration course for the trustee industry body (Trustee Companies Association), and
- had the valuable experience of a period assignment to the Department of Justice (Legislative Unit). Here, I assisted drafting legislation, and researched and responded to public enquiries concerning the Retirement Villages Act.
I left Perpetual in 2003 and established my own legal practice.
Rachael Coumans
I have been working with Phil (who is also my Dad!!) since 2013 as a legal assistant and have become very familiar in how the practice runs. During this time I have attended various workshops in Will and Estate Administration and Conveyancing.
I am currently completing my Diploma in Conveyancing at RMIT University to become a licenced Conveyanver in the business.