Meet Mark Sneddon

Mark Sneddon leads our dispute resolution practice, bringing more than 20 years’ experience as a barrister specialising in commercial law, equity, estate disputes and complex litigation. Mark has appeared in the Supreme Court of NSW, the Federal Court of Australia and the High Court of Australia, and is highly regarded for his advocacy, negotiation skills and practical approach to resolving disputes.

Examples of Cases in which Mark has appeared

In the Supreme Court of NSW, Court of Appeal:

• Ell, Richard Austin v Ell, Stephen Maxwell [2015] NSWCA 38 – Mark’s client was successful in the appeal regarding the construction of a will; whether the will released debt owing to the testator; whether release was conditional upon debtor having provided registered security for a debt by way of mortgage; use of evidence of surrounding circumstances evidence to identify knowledge and intentions of testator. 

• Hawcroft General Trading Co Pty Ltd v Hawcroft [2017] NSWCA 91 – Mark’s client was successful in the appeal regarding estoppel by conduct; whether appellant company had made a clear and unequivocal representation upon which the deceased had relied to his detriment; whether there was a common operative mistake; whether parties entered into deeds under bilateral mistaken belief; construction and interpretation of contracts.

• Carnemolla v Adelaide Bank [2013] NSWCA 122 – Mark’s client was successful in the appeal; issues included: the validity of a mortgage; establishing no fraud; no forgery; broker did not mislead appellants.

In the Supreme Court of NSW:

• Hobhouse v Macarthur-Onslow [2016] NSWSC 1831 – Mark’s client was successful in largely upholding the will of the deceased in a large estate of around $200 million. 

• Land Enviro Corp Pty Limited v HTT Huntley Heritage Pty Limited [2012] NSWSC 382 – in a case which ran at trial for over one month, Mark’s clients were successful in defending allegations of misleading or deceptive conduct; fiduciary duties; in the context of a case claiming around $100 million in damages. 

• Kanjian Holdings No 1 Pty Ltd v Kanjian; Kanjian v Kanjian (No 3) [2021] NSWSC 839 – in a case which ran at trial for around one month, Mark’s clients were successful in defending serious allegations of alleged unconscionable conduct, undue influence and dishonest misrepresentations. 

Some other cases of significance:

• Zaccardi v Caunt [2008] NSWCA 202, an appeal regarding the validity of notices to complete in contracts for sale of real property land and exchange of counterparts in non-identical terms; whether unenforceable oral agreement. 

• Buffrey v Buffrey & Anor [2006] NSWSC 1349, a case analysing the principles of resulting trusts over real property land and the various legal presumptions. 

• Poulos v Eberstaller [2013] NSWSC 1849, successfully setting aside a transfer of real property land under s 37A of the Conveyancing Act; application of contractual principles where one cannot benefit from own wrong under a contract. 

You need an experienced Dispute Resolution Lawyer

Disputes can impact your business, finances, relationships and peace of mind. Having experienced legal representation ensures your rights are protected and your matter is approached strategically from the outset. Our team works closely with you to minimise stress, identify opportunities for resolution and achieve outcomes that are commercially and personally sensible. Whether you are facing a commercial dispute, estate litigation or another complex legal issue, our team is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your matter and learn how we can assist you in moving forward with clarity and confidence.

Resolve Disputes with Confidence

Legal disputes can be stressful, time-consuming and emotionally draining. Whether you are involved in a commercial disagreement, estate dispute, partnership conflict or complex litigation, our experienced dispute resolution team is here to guide you toward practical and effective outcomes. Led by Mark Sneddon, our team combines strategic legal expertise with strong negotiation and advocacy skills to help clients resolve disputes efficiently and confidently.

Our Services

Strategic Legal Advice

Early legal advice can make all the difference. We work with clients to identify risks, protect their interests and achieve practical resolutions.

Estate Litigation
We provide advice and representation in contested wills, family provision claims, probate disputes and other estate-related litigation matters.

Property and Equity Disputes
We advise on disputes involving property ownership, trusts, equitable claims and related legal issues.

Contract Review and Negotiation
We’ll review and negotiate contracts to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.

Commercial Disputes

We assist businesses and individuals in resolving contractual disputes, partnership disagreements, shareholder issues and other commercial conflicts.

Mediation and Dispute Resolution
Our team regularly assists clients through mediation and negotiated settlements, helping resolve disputes efficiently and cost-effectively.

Court Proceedings and Appeals
We represent clients across all stages of litigation, including hearings, trials and appeals in State and Federal courts.

Strategic Legal Advice

Early legal advice can make all the difference. We work with clients to identify risks, protect their interests and achieve practical resolutions.