- Main Office (Niddrie/Essendon)
- Pakenham office
Sidney Mendis is the Principal Barrister and Solicitor at Mendis & Gibson Lawyers. With more than 35 years of experience across commercial, civil, family and criminal litigation, he brings extensive advocacy experience and practical judgment to each matter. He is admitted to practise in the Supreme Court of Victoria and the High Court of Australia.
Sidney has a particular focus on commercial law and commercial litigation. He assists individuals and businesses with complex disputes, providing clear advice on their legal position, available options and the steps towards resolution. His approach considers both the strength of the legal case and the financial and personal impact on his clients.
Sidney combines careful preparation with firm representation. He explores opportunities to resolve disputes through negotiation where appropriate and provides experienced advocacy when court proceedings are necessary.
In October 2017, the Law Institute of Victoria’s Law Institute Journal featured Sidney’s professional journey, reflecting on his 35 years in practice and his commitment to supporting vulnerable people unfamiliar with the legal system. LIV Journal Link
Throughout his career, Sidney has trained, supervised and mentored legal practitioners. His dedication to professional development, community service and personal client care continues to shape the firm’s approach.
Shawn Mendis is a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Victoria and the High Court of Australia and also admitted as a barrister and Solicitor of High Court of New Zealand.
Shawn comes from a Legal and Accounting background and he focuses primarily on Business Advisory, Tax Law Matters, Contracts and Commercial Disputes. He has sound knowledge of the Commercial and Business Environment. He has completed his Law School in Monash University.
He advices individuals, small and medium business clients. He specialises in Sales of Business/Purchase of Business. He deals with individuals setting up business from scratch to business-to-business clients with complex business structures, franchise involvement, Intellectual property, and employee transfers. Shawn is well equipped to advice on any complex business transfer/sales matters given his skill set and background in accounting. He is also great at advising on various business matters such as director’s duties, shareholder disputes and partners disputes.
Shawn is currently the driving force of the business, as the practice manager he overlooks and steers the strategic growth and continued improvement of the firm. He has introduced latest technology and methods so that the firm can deliver consistently and uphold their quality standards on legal services with enhanced customer relationship and satisfaction.
Shawn Mendis combines qualifications in law and accounting to provide practical advice to individuals, families and business owners. He holds a Juris Doctor from Monash University and a Bachelor of Accounting from La Trobe University and is admitted to practise in Australia and New Zealand.
His practice covers wills and estates, business and commercial law, contracts, commercial disputes, family law and criminal matters. He assists with wills, powers of attorney, probate and estate administration, as well as business sales and purchases, business structures, and shareholder and partnership disputes. His accounting background helps clients understand the financial and commercial implications of their legal decisions.
In 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026, Shawn was recognised among the top 10 finalists in the Wills and Estates category at the Lawyers Weekly Partner of the Year Awards in Sydney. In 2026, he also received an Outstanding Young Entrepreneur Award in the 40 and Under category.
Through the firm’s involvement in Cancer Council Victoria’s Legal Support Program, Shawn supports access to legal assistance for eligible people affected by cancer. His community involvement includes Lions Club service, community education, local sporting sponsorship and participation in the Cardinia Leadership Program.
A former contract law lecturer, Shawn values clear explanations and informed decision making. He also contributes to the firm’s strategic development and use of technology, with a focus on responsive communication and accessible legal services.
Aypril Ahmet is a Senior Associate who holds Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of Psychological Science from La Trobe University.
Drawing on her knowledge of both law and psychology, Aypril provides practical, considered and client-focused legal advice to individuals, families and business owners across a range of practice areas, including commercial law, family law, estate litigation and criminal law.
Aypril combines careful legal analysis with a practical understanding of her clients’ concerns. She takes the time to explain the issues, assess the available options and develop an approach suited to each client’s circumstances.
Whether assisting with a commercial dispute, a sensitive family matter or a contested estate, Aypril focuses on thorough preparation and protecting her clients’ interests. She considers opportunities for negotiated resolution while preparing carefully when court proceedings are required.
Proud of her Turkish background, Aypril speaks English and Turkish. Her approachable manner helps clients discuss their concerns comfortably and make informed decisions with confidence.
Javier Gomez-Bastias holds a Bachelor of Laws from Victoria University and assists individuals and businesses with wills and estates, contract law, civil litigation and employment law. He provides clear, practical advice tailored to each client’s circumstances.
Javier combines careful preparation with attention to detail, helping clients understand their legal position, consider their options and make informed decisions. His work includes estate planning, estate matters, contractual and civil disputes, and workplace issues.
Proud of his Spanish background, Javier speaks English and Spanish. He values clear communication and personal service, helping clients feel informed and supported throughout their legal matter.
Debbie Kwok focuses on property law, conveyancing and foreign investment matters. She completed her law studies at the University of Sydney and is admitted to practise in the Supreme Court of Victoria.
Debbie brings experience managing property transactions and foreign investor matters at a Melbourne law firm. Her work includes preparing and reviewing contracts, handling Foreign Investment Review Board applications and guiding clients from contract signing through to settlement.
She assists local and overseas clients purchasing property or a business, paying close attention to contractual obligations, approval requirements and transaction deadlines. Her practical advice helps clients identify potential issues early and understand the steps involved.
Debbie speaks English, Mandarin and Cantonese. Friendly, approachable and attentive to detail, she provides personal support throughout each transaction.
Dr Joane Jonathan supports the firm’s business development and operations, drawing on experience in auditing, academia, management consulting and corporate governance. She holds a PhD in Accounting and CPA qualifications.
Her background includes business advisory, performance and management accounting, and public and corporate governance. She brings financial insight and a practical understanding of organisational needs to the firm’s planning and development.
Joane works with the team to improve processes, strengthen service delivery and support sustainable growth. With a strong focus on people and relationships, she helps ensure the firm’s development remains responsive to the needs of its clients.
Shantal oversees the day-to-day operations of the Niddrie and Pakenham offices, helping both teams deliver organised, responsive and professional service. She works closely with the principals, solicitors and support staff to coordinate office processes and maintain a welcoming environment for clients.
Her responsibilities include trust accounting, business accounting and financial administration, with a strong focus on accuracy, careful record keeping and efficient processes.
Shantal also coordinates public relations, marketing and community engagement, helping strengthen the firm’s relationships and professional reputation. Approachable and organised, she plays an important role in supporting the team and ensuring clients receive consistent care from their first enquiry through to the completion of their matter.