Meet Peter Godkin, Sydney criminal barrister and member of the NSW Bar since 2014. Direct access representation across criminal matters throughout NSW.

Peter Godkin is a Sydney criminal barrister and has been a member of the NSW Bar since 2014.

He accepts suitable matters on a direct access basis, allowing many clients to speak directly with the barrister who will advise them and appear in court from the outset.

Peter regularly appears in the Local Court, District Court and Supreme Court of NSW, representing clients throughout Greater Sydney and across New South Wales.

Speak With Peter

If you would like to discuss your matter, Peter offers a free first conference to explain your options and whether direct access is appropriate for your case.

Book Your Free First Conference: 02 9235 3033

Peter has led matters in the following NSW Courts:

Local Court

  • Blacktown
  • Bankstown
  • Mt Druitt
  • Parramatta
  • Fairfield
  • Penrith
  • Downing Centre
  • Gosford
  • Newtown
  • Sutherland
  • Campbelltown
  • Liverpool
  • Manly
  • Burwood
  • Waverley
  • Wyong

District Court

  • Parramatta
  • Penrith
  • Downing Centre

Supreme Court

  • Sydney

Peter practices from 8 Windeyer Chambers, Level 8, 225 Macquarie Street, Sydney

Professional Recognition

Peter is:

  • A member of the NSW Bar Association
  • A member of 8 Windeyer Chambers, Sydney CBD
  • A member of several NSW Legal Aid panels, including:
    • Indictable Criminal Law
    • Complex & Serious Crime
    • Child Crime
    • Care & Protection
    • Domestic Violence
    • Mental Health

These Legal Aid panel appointments involve independent assessment and are intended for practitioners undertaking legally aided matters within those specialist areas.

Education

  • Bachelor of Music Education
  • Licentiate diploma Performance
  • Fellowship diploma Performance
  • Master of Arts (Leadership)
  • Master of Education
  • Juris Doctor
  • NSW State Conservatorium of Music
  • Trinity College London
  • Trinity College London
  • University of Manchester
  • UWS
  • UTS

Beyond the Bar

Before joining the Bar, Peter worked as a teacher and community worker.

Those experiences continue to influence the way he practises today. Peter believes clients should understand not only what is happening in their case, but also why it is is happening. He explains legal issues in clear, practical language so clients can make informed decisions throughout their matter.

Peter has also developed and taught a preparation course for lawyers seeking admission to the NSW Bar.

Teaching

A gifted teacher, Peter often teaches to legal professionals.

This unique and developed ability to explain and clarify is of great benefit to you as a client

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Choose a Direct Access Barrister?

Many people first engage a solicitor, who then briefs a barrister to appear in court.

For many criminal matters, Peter accepts instructions directly from clients under the Direct Access rules.

This allows many clients to:

  • Speak directly with their barrister from the beginning
  • Receive advice without an additional layer of communication
  • Work with the barrister who will generally appear for them in court

Direct access is not appropriate for every matter.

If your case requires work that should be undertaken by a solicitor, Peter will explain this before accepting your matter so you understand what assistance is needed.

What's the difference between a barrister and a solicitor?

A solicitor generally prepares a matter, manages ongoing communication and may instruct a barrister for court appearances.

A barrister specialises in legal advice, courtroom advocacy and appearing before the court.

For many criminal matters in NSW, clients may instruct a barrister directly.

What does direct access mean?

Direct access allows you to engage Peter directly without first retaining a solicitor.

This means you can speak directly with the barrister who will advise you and, where appropriate, appear in court on your behalf.

Will I still need a solicitor?

Sometimes.

Certain matters involve work that is more appropriately carried out by a solicitor.

If that applies to your matter, Peter will explain this before accepting your instructions so you understand what assistance will be required.

Which courts does Peter appear in?

Peter regularly appears in the Local Court, District Court and Supreme Court of NSW, representing clients throughout Sydney and across New South Wales.