Paul Blake

Paul Blake, a Partner at KPT Defence Lawyers, has nearly two decades of experience in criminal defence law in Sydney. He holds a Bachelor of Arts with Honours, a Bachelor of Laws with Honours from the University of Sydney, and a Master of Arts in British History. His early career included serving as Tipstaff to Justice Virginia Bell at the Supreme Court of NSW, where he gained invaluable insights into the judicial process. Admitted as an Accredited Specialist in criminal law by the Law Society of NSW in 2013, Paul is recognised for his expertise in this field. He has actively contributed to professional regulatory bodies, including the Law Society's Criminal Law Advisory Committee and the Specialist Accreditation Sub-Committee as both a member and examiner. Paul has conducted numerous criminal hearings across Sydney and regional NSW, achieving not guilty verdicts for clients in various complex cases. His advocacy extends to bail applications, sentencing pleas, and mental health diversions. He frequently appears in the District Court of NSW for conviction and sentencing appeals and represents young defendants in the Children’s Court. Paul's experience encompasses a wide array of criminal charges, from domestic assault and drug offences to more severe allegations like manslaughter and sexual assault. He has also handled professional disciplinary matters and complex suspicious death cases in the NSW Coroner's Court. In addition to his criminal defence work, Paul maintains a civil practice focused on cases arising from improperly maintained prosecutions. He represents individuals seeking justice against the State and personal defendants against governmental bodies. His legal acumen extends to advising clients on media law issues, including defamation claims. Outside the courtroom, Paul engages in reading history and biography, enjoys 20th-century fiction and films, and appreciates wine, tennis, and touch rugby.