Craig Murray – Principal
CDM Lawyers is led by Craig Murray, a highly experienced advocate who consistently achieves excellent results for his clients. It is Craig’s approach to each and every matter that sets him apart, adopting the adage that ‘if you fail to plan, you plan to fail’. As a police officer and police prosecutor for over 15 years, Craig gained invaluable experience in criminal, traffic and liquor licensing law. With excellent people skills and the ability to make on-the-spot decisions, Craig brings it all together in the court room with his experience at the coal face serving him well. A skilled negotiator, champion debater and public speaker, Craig understands the ‘system’ from every angle.
Advisory Team
CDM Lawyers advisory team were selected for their skill and ability and for arguably being the best in the business.
James Glissan – ESM QC
James Glissan ESM QC was called to The Bar in 1971 and was appointed Queens Counsel in 1985. He served as a Public Defender for several years followed by a period as an Acting District Court Judge. Mr Glissan practices in criminal law, administrative law, building and construction law, industrial and employment law, medical and professional negligence and defamation law. He is also a mediator and grade 1 arbitrator. A highly respected author in advocacy and trial procedure relied on by judges and lawyers, there are few legal minds as sharp as James Glissan QC. CDM Lawyers is extremely fortunate to have him as a member of its advisory team.
William Wilcher – Barrister
William (John) Wilcher is a down to earth, common sense no nonsense barrister. After a career as a police dog handler, kung fu instructor and solicitor, William was called to the bar in 2002 and has established himself as a talented trial advocate. William prepares meticulously and is methodical and tenacious. With a Master of Laws and formerly a university lecturer in criminal law, William is an invaluable asset to CDM Lawyers and together we have achieved outstanding results for a number of clients.
Gary Coulthart – Computer and mobile phone forensics
Gary has extensive experience and qualifications in public sector and criminal investigations, specialising in mobile telephone and computer forensics. He has worked with the both NSW Police and the ICAC managing intelligence and investigations teams, providing technical expertise to covert surveillance and other technology based investigations. Gary’s experience, expertise and ability has assisted CDM Lawyers in having serious matters either withdrawn by the prosecution or outright acquittals.
Bill Hanington APM- Investigations
Bill Hanington APM is a retired Detective Superintendent and 40 year veteran of the NSW Police. An accomplished criminal investigator and ballistics and firearms expert, Bill served as the commander of the elite Special Weapons and Operations Squad (S.W.O.S), witness security, crime data and was a liaison officer for the State Parole Board. Bill was the chief of staff to the Commander, Olympic Security at the Sydney Games and was awarded the prestigious Australian Police Medal in the Queens Birthday Honours List. Bill is an excellent operator and regularly assists behind the scenes.
Steve Grove-Jones – Liquor/Gaming/Security
An experienced licensing sergeant with over 20 years in the NSW Police, Steve developed a thorough working knowledge of liquor licensing, security and firearms legislation. This experience was strengthened when Steve was appointed as the manager of liquor, gaming and security compliance for one of Sydney’s largest hotel groups, responsible for risk assessments and recommendations for all compliance related matters. Having completed, lodged ,assessed and negotiated a plethora of applications, Steve has forged an invaluable understanding and rapport with the related authorities. Steve assists CDM Lawyers in preparing and lodging applications with acute attention to detail and service to our clients.
Kristen Murray – Practice Manager
CDM Lawyers is committed to maintaining high standards in all areas and in that light we rely on Kristen to handle the management functions associated with a superior law practice. Kristen was the general manager and licensee of a busy city hotel for several years before becoming an associate in the corporate sector. With first-rate organisational ability and an excellent understanding of business practice, Kristen runs the CDM Lawyers office with distinction.
