Who Are We?

Darren is principal lawyer and founder of Sanicki Lawyers which he opened in March, 2009. Darren completed his law degree with honours at Monash University and has completed post graduate courses in copyright law, trade marks, intellectual property, and industrial designs. Darren also holds a Bachelor of Economics degree from Latrobe University.

Darren’s legal career was forged at mid-tier firm Marshalls & Dent Lawyers, where he worked primarily as a commercial lawyer, specialising in business sales and acquisitions, franchising, commercial leases, corporate restructuring, and civil litigation. He was made a senior associate after three years.

Darren has also represented clients in high profile litigious matters including a leading Federal Court Case concerning the fixing of a statutory licence for use of an iconic song for the services of the Commonwealth. With a wealth of first hand business experience, Darren’s expertise extends to all aspect of commercial law with a particular emphasis on contract negotiations & drafting, corporate structuring, large scale commercial transactions and dispute resolution.

Darren’s client base now includes many iconic businesses; Windsor Smith, Bad Workwear, Medical One, Step One, Cargo Crew, Morris Jones and the Meatball & Wine Bar to name a few. He assists in a variety of

Through his passion for music and the law, Darren has become a fixture in Melbourne’s music and entertainment scene. Together with his team, Darren has seen Sanicki Lawyers also become one of Australia’s leading and respected music and entertainment law firms. Darren’s client base includes many of Australia’s best-known bands, artists and creative businesses. With a commitment to helping young creatives, Darren was personally selected by the Artists from The Voice as their legal representative for all 12 Seasons of the show, having previously been selected to represent contestants from X-Factor and Australian Idol.

In recent years, Darren has also developed an extensive practice and reputation as a defamation lawyer. He successfully represented Michael Barker (Split Enz) in a defamation action against News Ltd and Today Tonight and together with his team, have successfully advocated in a number of high-profile defamation matters.

Darren volunteers his services as a pro-bono solicitor for the Arts Law Centre of Australia and is a 9 time recipient of the Arts Law Pro Bono award! Darren spent 10 years as Chairman of The Push, a not-for profit Government funded Victorian youth music organisation. Darren was also a founding board member of Music Victoria, Victoria’s peak contemporary music industry body. Darren has also taught in the Music Business and Music Law degrees at Victoria University.

When not working (when exactly is that??), Darren enjoys spending time with family comprising his wife Carly and 2 young boys Jacob and Oscar (both under 2 years old!). His other passion is the Carlton football, which has helped him learn patience and resilience if nothing else!

Notwithstanding any of this, Darren is still best known for a song he co-penned more than 30 years ago, “More Than A Game” being the iconic theme song for Channel 9’s The Footy Show!

Robert joined Sanicki Lawyers in 2022. He is an Accredited Commercial and Franchise Specialist with over 35 years of experience in acting for commercial and business clients and property. Rob commenced practice in 1982 and is a regular commentator and publisher of articles on the franchising, licensing, distribution and childcare sectors. Rob developed considerable business acumen while working for his brother Ted in Ted’s Camera Store, which continues to be an iconic Australian business. Rob enjoys the challenge of finding lateral solutions, giving direct “no bull” advice to clients, and getting the job done. Robert and his team at Sanicki Lawyers are dedicated lawyers that work hard for clients and find commercial solutions. The firm operates in an open and transparent manner regarding fees, including fixed fees based on scope of works for many services provided. This allows clients to monitor and budget for their legal costs.

Rob has expertise in the following sectors:

• Franchising: Acting for both Franchisors (local and international), Franchisees, Master Franchisees, Area Developers; Franchise dispute resolution acting for both Franchisors and Franchisees – solutions and strategies – mediation;
• Company and Corporate advice: Corporations Law – Director’s duties, corporate compliance and ASIC prosecutions of directors;  Establishing companies in Australia for foreign companies; General commercial, corporate advice and consultancy, shareholder/unit holder agreements and buyouts; Oppression actions and statutory demands for winding up and insolvency;
• Business and Corporate M&A work: Mergers and Acquisitions of a small to large business enterprises including due diligence processes;
• Retail and Commercial Leasing: Retail leasing, property and development projects, joint venture syndicates;
• Contractual matters: Contract review tenders and trade practices law (Competition and Consumer Act 2010); Licensing and distribution, commercial and contractual agreements, software licensing and development agreements;
• Childcare and Early Learning Sectors: Child Care and Early Learning Centre Sector – Investors, Developers and Operators;
• Medical and Allied health: Pharmacies and medical practise sale and purchase;
• Renewable Energy Law: Power Purchase agreements in the solar and renewables sector.

Robert is also a member of:

• Franchise Council of Australia (FCA)
• International Franchise Lawyers Association (IFLA)
• Australian Institute of Company Director (AICD)
• Global Law Network
• Resident Director and Public Agent for overseas companies in the USA, India and Canada
• Advisory Board Member to Franchisor and New Energy companies
• Advisor to NFP’s Aid Hub International

Peter joined Sanicki Lawyers in May 2019 as Special Counsel. He brings over 40 years’ experience as a commercial lawyer, having worked with a number of prestigious city legal firms including Browne & Co (when they were AFL’s lawyers), Mills Oakley and Marshalls & Dent.

Peter specialises in most aspects of Commercial Law, including:

• Mergers & Acquisition;
• Shareholder and Business Succession Agreements;
• Business set-up & Restructure;
• Commercial Disputes, including Alternative Dispute Resolution;
• Insolvency;
• Debt Recovery.

Peter also specialises in Estate Planning and Deceased Estates, including:

• Advising on and drafting Wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney and Appointments of a Medical Decision Maker;
•  Obtaining Grants of Probate or Letters of Administration in connection with deceased estates;
• Dealing with disputes arising out of deceased estates;
• Advising on the merits of challenging and/or contesting a Will on behalf of a disgruntled party, whether or not they be a named beneficiary.

Ant joined Sanicki Lawyers in late 2024 as a Special Counsel, bringing a strong background in media, entertainment, and the live events space. Most recently, Ant held the position of Director of Legal & Business Affairs for the Secret Sounds Group (part of Live Nation) which owns some of Australia’s leading Festival brands (Splendour In The Grass, Falls Festival), along with operating large-scale touring, artist management, agency representation, sponsorship and live music venues.  Previously, Ant was Head of Legal for leading TV production company, Shine Australia (Endemol Shine), working on some of the world’s largest TV formats (The Voice, MasterChef, The Bachelor), and Director of Legal for pioneering social media giant, MySpace.

Ant’s legal career commenced at Minter Ellison Lawyers in 2003, where he worked in the corporate and intellectual property practice areas, before moving in-house where he held several senior legal roles.  Ant completed his law degree with honours at Monash University in 2001, also holding a Bachelor of Commerce degree.

Ant’s passion for music and understanding of the industry extends to being a songwriter and musician playing in various bands, including a Triple J Unearthed winning band (2003).  Ant has also lectured at the Australian Institute of Music in areas of IP Law and Contract Negotiations. With extensive industry experience and solid commercial acumen, Ant focuses on building strong client relationships and thinking strategically in providing pragmatic advice.

Terence is an experienced litigation and liquor licensing lawyer with over 14 years of practice. His expertise spans contract and commercial disputes, property law, planning litigation, corporate governance, construction, insolvency, product liability, professional negligence, employment issues, and regulatory investigations and prosecutions.

Before becoming a lawyer, Terence gained valuable firsthand experience as a manager and nominee of prominent venues in Chapel Street, where he honed his skills in liquor licensing investigations and eventually defending liquor licensing prosecutions. This unique and localised background experience gives him an unmatched understanding of the complexities of the liquor licensing law and enforcement and the challenges faced by licensees in an uncompromising regulatory environment.

Terence regularly appears in all Victorian Courts and Tribunals, as well as in Federal jurisdictions, providing comprehensive legal representation across various levels of the legal system.

Kristen joined Sanicki Lawyers in 2022, where she primarily practices in corporate, commercial, and property law. Kristen was admitted to practice in 2016 and holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree, majoring in Chinese.

Kristen prides herself on her ability to create strong client relations and effectively manage matters in accordance with agreed client arrangements. Her experience in various areas of law has also contributed to her ability to assess matters from multiple perspectives.

Kristen has expertise in the following areas:

• General commercial, corporate advice and consultancy, shareholder/unitholder agreements;
• Mergers and acquisitions of small to large businesses;
• Sales and acquisitions of residential and commercial properties;
• Leasing (including retail leasing) – acting for tenants and landlords;
• Franchising – acting for Franchisors and Franchisees;
• Reviewing and preparing Loan Documents – acting for Lenders and Borrowers;
• Assisting not-for-profit organisations with the setup and/or review of their structure, including navigating legal requirements for registration and providing advice in relation legal compliance;
• Wills and Estates – assisting with the preparation of Wills and administration of Estates.

Outside of work, Kristen loves spending time with her family, including:

• taking her son to swimming;
• chasing her son around at parks; and
• going to the footy to support her beloved Richmond Tigers;
• trying new restaurants; and
• watching movies and tv shows.

Jonathan practises primarily in defamation law, litigation and commercial law. He is known for providing thorough guidance and reassurance to his clients during all stages of complex legal matters. He has acted on both sides of defamation matters involving all kinds of print and online publications, including major daily newspapers and social media. Jonathan’s comprehensive understanding of defamation law enables him to advocate fiercely for his clients, whether in pursuing or defending defamation claims. His successful defamation cases have included:

• Spencer v McKay [2023] VCC 2238
• Lorbek v King [2022] VSC 218 (trial) and [2023] VSCA 111 (appeal)

Jonathan has extensive experience in civil litigation, having acted in Courts and Tribunals of all levels. With a commercially minded approach to dispute resolution, he has a track record of negotiating successful outcomes without commencing legal proceedings, as well as the efficient resolution of defended matters.

At the same time, Jonathan has a substantial practice in a broad range of commercial law areas, including business sales and acquisitions, retail and commercial leasing, business structuring and commercial disputes. He is a trusted advisor to small and medium-sized businesses across a diverse range of industries, including retail, hospitality, manufacturing, real estate, construction, health and media.

Holding a Bachelor of Laws (with Honours) and Bachelor of Music from Monash University, Jonathan is also a classically trained pianist and composer. When not immersed in reading contracts or analysing defamatory publications, you’ll find him at the piano, preparing for his next concert.

Randima joined the firm in November 2023 and focuses primarily on commercial law, specialising in franchising, leasing, mergers and acquisitions of small to large businesses, licensing and distribution, commercial and contractual agreements, shareholder/unitholder agreements and disputes and general commercial matters. She also has substantial experience in commercial property law.

Randima was admitted to practice in 2019, having completed her practical legal training at the College of Law. She holds a double degree of a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and a Bachelor of Business, majoring in Public Relations, having graduated from the Queensland University of Technology in 2019. Before and after her admission, Randima gained diverse experience in retail and commercial leasing, residential and commercial tenancy disputes, residential and off-the-plan conveyancing and commercial property transactions across the Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria jurisdictions.

With her broad legal background, she takes great pride in providing her clients with clear, practical guidance throughout the course of their transactions. She approaches each matter with dedication, ensuring that every detail is meticulously addressed and that the transaction proceeds efficiently. She thrives on applying her attention to detail and legal expertise to navigate complex matters, transforming challenging situations into successful commercial outcomes.

Chelsea is a solicitor at Sanicki Lawyers specialising in music and entertainment law. Chelsea holds a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and Arts from Monash University and was admitted into the legal profession in 2022. Chelsea primarily acts for artists, producers, record labels, managers, writers, publishers and industry representatives on matters mostly concerning contracts and intellectual property laws within the music and entertainment industries. In her role at Sanicki Lawyers, Chelsea works alongside some of the biggest names in the Australian entertainment industry.

Outside of Sanicki Lawyers, Chelsea lectures at the Australian Institute of Music in Arts and Entertainment Law, is a pro bono panel lawyer for Arts Law Australia, and is an ambassador for The College of Law. Chelsea also performs as a vocalist in various bands for corporate events and at various public venues across Melbourne. Chelsea offers practical commercial advice to her clients based on a foundation of well-rounded knowledge of the music and entertainment industry and a strong passion for the arts.

Tugce joined Sanicki Lawyers in September 2023. She practices primarily in commercial law, with a focus on Trade Promotion matters. Tugce also has experience and a growing practice in the area of employment law. Tugce completed her Bachelor of Laws with Honours in 2022 and was admitted to practice in 2023 after completing her practical legal training at the College of Law. Tugce also holds a Bachelor of Legal and Dispute Studies from RMIT University.

Tugce focuses on providing tailored advice for all Trade Promotions matters which can be a great marketing tool for businesses. However, it is a complex area of law and it is important to understand the legal considerations involved. This includes each State and Territory regulations, permit requirements, terms and conditions, privacy policies, and regulations against misleading and deceptive conduct. Having assisted and continuing to assist various businesses running monthly Trade Promotions with confidence, Tugce has been described as being incredibly attentive and reliable.

Aside from her legal career, Tugce has been running her own business in women’s fashion since 2016. Tugce and her business partner launched a platform where women can hire designer clothes and goods, out of a mutual love for iconic luxury brands and a desire to make their wardrobe affordable and accessible to women across Australia. Tugce’s experience in managing a business since the age of 19 has exemplified her confidence, resilience, willingness to sacrifice, and relentless determination for success. These strengths and attributes are undoubtedly transferable to her clients at Sanicki Lawyers.

Grace joined Sanicki Lawyers in 2024 and practices in litigation, with a focus on building disputes, employment law, banking and finance – including fraudulent transfers and irresponsible lending claims, defamation, probate, wills and estates, and intellectual property and trade mark enforcement. Grace is also part of the Hospitality Law Team being involved with liquor licensing, defending infringements, evidence review, liaising with Victoria Police, and briefing and instructing Counsel for hearings. Grace assists Special Counsel Terence O’Brien with all liquor licensing and council disputes and prosecutions including complex licensing prosecutions under the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998, Planning and Environment Act 1987 and EPA Noise Regulations by managing infringements, conducting complex evidence reviews, liaising with Victoria Police and Liquor Control Victoria, and preparing briefs and instructing for Counsel. In addition to litigious Hospitality Legal work, Grace presents on premises licensing compliance training for licensees and their staff to prominent venues around Melbourne. Grace’s meticulous approach and deep understanding of liquor licensing laws ensure her clients’ matters are handled with precision and efficiency.

Prior to joining Sanicki Lawyers Grace completed her Bachelor of Laws and Business at Australian Catholic University, where she was awarded the Vice-Chancellor Award for Outstanding Achievement. She was admitted to practice in 2023 after completing her practical legal training at Leo Cussen. Grace also has experience assisting Tiffany & Co. as an Assistant to the International Trademark Enforcement Director, where she assisted in training Australian Border Force officers on counterfeit goods and trademark laws.

Grace’s practice is grounded in providing clear, practical legal advice and navigating complex matters to ensure clients’ legal needs are met efficiently. She is known for her proactive approach and strong communication skills, ensuring her clients receive comprehensive support. In addition to her legal career, Grace has developed a strong interest in various hobbies, including reformer Pilates, and is a passionate Melbourne Football Club member. She is also actively involved in the Victorian Women’s Lawyers Mentoring Committee, where she supports the professional development of law graduates and newly admitted lawyers.

Natasha joined Sanicki Lawyers in February 2025 as a paralegal intern and was brought on as a law graduate in April 2025. With a background in film and media, she believes deeply in the power of the arts to shape hearts, minds, and policy – and is driven by a passion for using the law to support the creative industries and spark positive social change.

Natasha holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Melbourne, where she double majored in Media & Communications and Screen & Cultural Studies, followed by a Juris Doctor from Melbourne Law School, and a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice from Leo Cussen. Her career journey has woven through corporate boardrooms (Ashurst; Deloitte), creative spaces (Red Bull Aston Martin Racing; impact film company Moonshine Agency), and a plethora of customer service roles; and she couldn’t be more thrilled to now be working with the wonderful Sanicki Lawyers team. Outside of work, Tash is a devoted film buff, live music enthusiast, passionate stress baker, and diehard football (soccer!) fan.

Lucy joined Sanicki Lawyers in 2021. With over 20 years of conveyancing experience, Lucy ensures client satisfaction and is proven to achieve successful outcomes. Lucy is a competent and efficient person who works very well under pressure. Lucy has established her conveyancing career with over 20 years’ experience in the legal and conveyancing industry.

Ainsley joined Sanicki Lawyers in January 2024 as a Senior Conveyancer though a merge of her conveyancing company, Western Conveyancing, with Sanicki Lawyers. In this role, she undertakes a range of tasks, including Purchase and Sales of residential and commercial property, leasing, plan of subdivision and consolidations, transfer of title, Application for Survivorship and transmission Applications. Ainsley has over 30 years’ experience in conveyancing matters.

Outside of her professional and academic life, Ainsley is passionate about travel, all team sports and staying active. She enjoys coaching junior netball, attending the Western Bulldogs football games, and cherishes spending time with friends and family.

Dilini joined Sanicki Lawyers’ Conveyancing team in April 2024, bringing years of experience in residential, commercial, and off-the-plan property transactions. Before joining Sanicki, she worked across various legal fields in Melbourne, including immigration and property law. Dilini was a practice lawyer in Sri Lanka and moved to Australia for her higher studies. Dilini holds a Master of Marketing Management, a Graduate Certificate in Immigration Law, and an Advanced Diploma of Conveyancing in Australia. She is currently completing her Practical Legal Training at the College of Law. Outside of work, Dilini is a former member of the Sri Lanka National School Netball Team, a highlight of her sports career.

Megan joined Western Conveyancing in 2013 and completed her Diploma of Conveyancing at RMIT in 2017. She assists with all aspects of the conveyancing process including file management, preparing documents, and corresponding with clients.

Rachael joined Sanicki Lawyers in January 2024 as a Conveyancing Clerk. Her role consists of a variety of tasks from reception, client communication, file management and general administration. Rachael is always happy to help to ensure client satisfaction.

Outside of her work life, Rachael loves to travel, watching her favourite teams including Carlton Football Club and the Vixens Netball Team on the weekends. She enjoys walks and cherishes spending time with friends and family.

Mia joined Sanicki Lawyers in April 2024 as a Paralegal Intern and was promoted to the role of Paralegal in May 2024.  She assists with a wide array of tasks including, file management, legal research, drafting documents, providing case support, corresponding with clients, filing court documents, and overall office management. Mia is currently in her penultimate year of a Bachelor of Law/Arts degree at Monash University, majoring in criminology and human rights. Mia has a genuine passion for helping others, evident in her volunteer work as a paralegal at the Asylum Seeker Refugee Centre.

Outside of her legal pursuits, Mia also enjoys the arts, such as playing the piano, singing and seeing musicals and live performances. A keen traveller, Mia has explored various countries worldwide, most recently spending a semester studying in the Netherlands. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with friends, yoga and Pilates, and hanging out with her dog.

Nicole joined Sanicki Lawyers in November 2024 as a Paralegal Intern and transitioned into the role of Paralegal in December 2024. In this role, she assists in a range of tasks, including client communication, file management, legal document drafting and filing, and conducting legal research.

Nicole is in her final year of studying a Bachelor of Laws at Swinburne University of Technology. Outside of her professional and academic life, Nicole is passionate about travel, adventure and staying active. She enjoys snowboarding, scuba diving, and playing any team sport. She cherishes spending time with friends and family.

Imogen joined Sanicki Lawyers as a Paralegal Intern in June 2024 and transitioned to a Paralegal role in September 2024. She provides support across a range of practice areas, assisting with client communications, preparing and revising legal documents, and managing files. Imogen holds a Bachelor of Science from Monash University and is currently a penultimate-year Juris Doctor candidate also at Monash University. She aims to specialise in an area of law where her science background will be an asset, for example Intellectual Property, enabling her to combine her expertise in both fields.

Passionate about her legal career, Imogen has broadened her experience by volunteering at a community legal centre, competing in Moot Competitions, and tutoring Juris Doctor students in Property Law. Outside of her legal studies, Imogen has a strong sports background, having competitively played Netball and Basketball. She now enjoys playing Netball recreationally with friends. Imogen also enjoys experimenting in the kitchen and has a passion for baking, often creating her own unique recipes.

Esther joined Sanicki Lawyers in August 2024 in a marketing role, and has since transitioned to a hybrid Paralegal/Marketing position with the firm. Esther has a professional background in arts marketing, having spent several years running marketing campaigns for iconic Australian arts institutions including the Sydney Opera House and RISING Festival. She returned to university in 2023 to study the Juris Doctor at RMIT University, and is currently in her final year of study. She brings this unique background in entertainment, marketing and legal experience to enhance her work with Sanicki.

In her spare time, Esther enjoys playing board games with friends, reading, writing and playing the piano and cello. She hopes to apply her trademark blend of creativity and pragmatism to all her projects, whether professional or personal.

Annika joined Sanicki Lawyers in October 2024 as Executive Assistant to Darren Sanicki.  

Annika completed her Bachelor of Arts at The University of Melbourne in 2020, majoring in Creative Writing and English and Theatre Studies. With a background in operations management, fashion and retail, and extensive experience in customer service positions, Annika brings a diverse range of capabilities to her role at Sanicki.

Annika’s varied experience has provided her with a broad perspective and a familiarity with small-medium sized businesses priorities and needs. Paired with her resourcefulness, adaptability, a willingness to help, and can-do attitude, Annika is an asset to the Sanicki team.

Completing a Certificate IV in Mental Health at RMIT in 2023, Annika also brings a mental health lens to her role. She is passionate about promoting and facilitating access to mental health, in terms of education, awareness, and services, with a particular focus on the most vulnerable members of the community. This passion, a strong work ethic, and a belief in the importance of giving back to the community, has underscored Annika’s long-standing involvement with a variety of charities and other not-for-profit organisations. Annika’s philanthropic background extends from running fundraising events and the operations of charity organisations, to providing essential supplies and services on the ground to those experiencing homelessness and mental health crises.

Vandana boasts 7+ years of experience in financial controlling and auditing. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, majoring in Accounting and has since become a certified XERO Advisor.

Kathy joined Sanicki Lawyers in May 2024 as a Personal Assistant to the lawyers in the Commercial and Franchising Teams.  She previously worked in top tier Law Firms in London, Melbourne and on the Gold Coast where she grew up.  In another age, she worked as a comptometrist for Quantity Surveyors and as an Animal Welfare Liaison at a shelter. Kathy loves the dynamics of working in a smaller firm with lawyers that specialise in multiple disciplines as it provides her the opportunity to work across a variety of areas of law.   She has found it a refreshing change and very interesting working on matters for individual clients, as well as the usual larger firms.

Kathy studied ‘Environmental and International Development’ in London.  She has a passion for travelling and some of her favourite experiences were working in Mother Teresa’s Missions in Calcutta and volunteering on a Kibbutz in Israel. In her spare time Kathy enjoys pottery and hiking with her partner and Saxon their Mastiff X.