Wollongong law firm Kells is starting the New Year by welcoming a former Police prosecutor to its ranks.
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Patrick Schmidt joins the firm from the NSW Police Force and started last Monday.
Mr Schmidt was a senior prosecutor and relieving area prosecutor commander in the Sydney and the Specialist Courts command.
He has a wealth of experience in all types of criminal matters running up to 80 "list" mentions and up to five hearings on a daily basis.
Prior to his role as a police prosecutor Mr Schmidt was a general duties officer and plain clothes officer within the detective's office at Marrickville Local Area Command.
Before joining the NSW Police he was an associate at a boutique Sydney law firm.
“I am delighted to be given the opportunity of a career switch in becoming a defence lawyer at Kells and excited to be part of the team going forward,” he said.
“Having represented the State in all types of criminal cases and my experience as a police officer, I aspired to join a prominent Illawarra law firm with a Sydney presence to apply my knowledge and strategies as a defence lawyer”.
Mr Schmidt started work last Monday and has been in court every day.
He and his wife Catriona and their growing family have already relocated.
Mrs Schmidt enjoys surfing and grew up in Wollongong.
Her parents still live at Austinmer and many of her friends are here.
“We have another baby on the way,” he said.
“We have a 10 year old, a two year old and another baby due in two weeks.
There’s everything down here and the restaurants are fantastic
- Patrick Schmidt
But Mr Schmidt is no stranger to the area having studied law at University of Wollongong and lived in Weerona College.
“I have been wanting to come back. This is an absolute lifestyle choice. The kids will be able to go down to the beach every afternoon. There’s everything down here. And the restaurants are fantastic here now,” he said.
Kells managing partner Paul Magagnino said it was great to have someone of Mr Schmidt’s experience and talent joining the firm. He will be able to offer clients familiarity of knowing both sides of a criminal trial.
“With Patrick's background and knowledge, our clients will benefit from an experienced advocate who can provide the best representation for them, no matter what their situation or circumstance, and whether they are in the Shoalhaven, Illawarra, Macarthur or Sydney,” he said.
Mr Schmidt said he will still get to do some work in Sydney and already had a matter in Milton this month. He said he likes to keep busy.
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