David Harper

Managing Director Dobson Mitchell Allport

Hobart, TAS

About David

David Harper, the Managing Director at Dobson Mitchell Allport, brings over two decades of dedicated experience in family and relationships law. His legal career spans across Australia and internationally, having worked extensively in Melbourne, London, and Jersey in the Channel Islands. David's expertise is bolstered by his dual qualifications as a barrister and solicitor in Tasmania and a solicitor in England and Wales. His practice is characterised by a pragmatic and solutions-focused approach, rooted in Collaborative Practice principles. David's commitment to professionalism and care is evident in his dedication to achieving durable and commercially viable outcomes for his clients, whether through negotiation or litigation. As a Nationally Accredited Mediator, he frequently chairs mediations in both financial and parenting matters. David has been acknowledged by Doyle's Guide as a Preeminent Family & Divorce Lawyer in Tasmania and is a Recommended Family Law Mediator. His international perspective enriches his practice, particularly in cross-border family law issues such as international relocations and jurisdictional disputes. Before returning to Tasmania in 2018, David led the Thrings Family Law team in London and amassed considerable expertise advising clients on various family law matters, including divorce, financial settlements, and jurisdictional challenges. His involvement in high-stakes cases like Hague Convention matters and his work with same-sex couples underscore his ability to handle complex legal issues with sensitivity and precision. Educated at the University of Tasmania, David holds a Bachelor of Arts/Law and a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice. Outside of his professional commitments, he is a dedicated father and enjoys running and exploring new travel adventures with his family.