Sykes Bidstrup

Sykes Bidstrup was established in 1979 and has built a reputation over several decades for providing comprehensive legal services across various areas, including commercial law, civil litigation, family law, and criminal law. The firm’s origins trace back to a partnership formed in 1980 between Michael Sykes and Wendy Bidstrup, and since then, it has cultivated extensive experience in the South Australian courts and occasionally in other jurisdictions. The team at Sykes Bidstrup has a strong history of representing clients in a broad spectrum of matters. Their work covers civil and estate litigation, family law disputes involving property, children, and child support, with a noted emphasis on resolving issues through early mediation and negotiation. They also prepare family law documentation such as Applications for Consent Orders and Financial Agreements, provide services in Will preparation, and administer estates. The firm adopts a practical, down-to-earth approach, aiming to guide clients thoughtfully through what can be a complex and often intimidating legal landscape. This approach has garnered trust from clients who have supported the firm largely through word-of-mouth recommendations. The firm’s office, located at 77 Angas Street, Adelaide, is housed in a terrace-style building dating back to the 1880s. Since moving to this location in 1982, the partners have taken care to preserve the building’s heritage features, recently undertaking restoration work on the sandstone façade with assistance from the Adelaide City Council. The office environment is designed to be comfortable and welcoming, recognising the stress that often accompanies legal matters. Its proximity to the Courts precinct at Victoria Square also offers convenience for clients attending court proceedings. Clients of Sykes Bidstrup can expect knowledgeable, practical, and empathetic advice tailored to navigating their unique legal issues. Should a matter lie outside the firm’s expertise, clients are referred to appropriate professionals. From the initial enquiry, the firm aims to provide prompt feedback by phone or arrange a face-to-face meeting if necessary to assess the issue and offer guidance. Upon retention, clients receive a clear costs estimate and a Costs Agreement in accordance with legal requirements. The firm’s lawyers and support staff collaborate closely, fostering a team approach especially in complex cases. They often engage barristers early in proceedings to utilise their expertise in hearings and trials, ensuring clients receive well-rounded advocacy. Michael Sykes, the founding partner, brings considerable experience to the firm. Admitted as a solicitor in the United Kingdom in 1969, he worked in commercial law before relocating to Adelaide in 1972. Initially practising commercial law with Thomson & Co, he later partnered with Andrew Cannon. Michael’s practice has spanned commercial, civil litigation, and criminal law, and he now serves as a consultant to the firm. His deep knowledge of legal principles and analytical skills are highly regarded within the Adelaide legal community and contribute significantly to the firm’s capacity to manage complex legal disputes.