The Law Society is pleased to offer a free CPD session presented by David Crocker of the South Australian Bar.

Date:      Thursday, 8 May 2025
Where:   REINT Training Room 2/6 Lindsay Street Darwin or by Zoom.
Time:      12:00pm to 1:00pm

This free CPD is offered in-person and online however seating is limited and bookings are essential.  To register your attendance for this event click here.

Litigation lawyers know that most disputes are resolved by settlement agreements, which almost always include a general release clause that releases a specific claim then extends to a broader release (known or unknown claims, whether past, present or future).

Well-drafted clauses can prevent future disputes, but ineffective clauses can leave parties exposed. For any lawyer involved in settling disputes, mastering the art of drafting effective general release clauses is essential.

In this comprehensive presentation, Barrister David Crocker will discuss:

• The leading High Court decision on general release clauses (Grant v John Grant & Sons Pty Ltd [1954] HCA 23; 91 CLR 112);
• Lessons from some recent decisions of appellate courts around Australia; and
• Practical tips for drafting more effective settlement agreements.

David Crocker has been at the South Australian Independent Bar for more than 20 years. He practices in most areas of civil litigation with an emphasis on matters involving deceased estates, equity and trusts. He holds a Master of Laws (Wills & Estates) from the NSW College of Law. David is an accredited mediator, member of the SA Magistrates Court Panel of Mediators, a Reporter for Australian Succession & Trust Law Reports for 12 years and has been named “Pre-eminent” junior counsel in South Australia in Doyles Guide in Wills & Estate Litigation in 2016.