Pippa Sampson

Pippa Sampson is the Director and Principal of Goddard Elliott, bringing extensive legal expertise since her admission to practice in 1981 and her partnership in the firm since 1989. Her career began with roles as a Ministerial Adviser and Personal Secretary to the Minister for Planning and Environment, fostering her advocacy for Local Government. Pippa's broad legal acumen spans numerous areas. In Planning and Environment Law, she has considerable experience in VCAT, Magistrates’, and Supreme Court proceedings, handling cases related to the Building Act, Public Health & Safety Act, Food Act, and more. Her proficiency extends to commercial litigation, encompassing breach of contract, torts, franchise disputes, and shareholder issues among others. In estate administration, Pippa navigates complex high-net-worth estates, tackling issues such as informal Wills and international assets. She is frequently appointed by the Supreme Court and VCAT to act as a professional Executor or Administrator, and is adept in estate litigation challenges, including testamentary capacity and constructive trusts. Pippa also handles intricate property claims, commercial transactions, and disputes with tax authorities. Her estate planning services cover Wills, enduring powers of attorney, and various trusts. Her practice sees her representing a diverse clientele, including private companies, individuals, families, local councils, and developers, in Federal and State courts, as well as in mediations and arbitrations. Pippa is recognised for her assertive yet pragmatic approach, guiding her clients with commercial insight and a problem-solving mindset. Beyond her practice, Pippa has served as President of the Eastern Suburbs Law Association, contributed to the boards of Methodist Ladies' College, the Law Institute of Victoria, and Calisthenics Victoria, and offered pro bono support to charitable organisations. Her academic background includes dual degrees in Law and Arts from Monash University.