CLP Legal History
Our History
CLP Legal was founded in 2000 in the heart of Fremantle, just steps from the iconic fishing harbour and bustling cappuccino strip. What began as a small local practice—originally known as Piu & Associates—has grown into a respected and well-established law firm known today as CLP Legal.
The firm was established by three long-time colleagues: Vince Calalesina, Basil Lenzo, and Michael Piu. With a shared vision and a deep commitment to their clients, they formed a partnership grounded in professionalism, community connection, and results-driven legal service.
As the practice expanded, it evolved—from Piu & Associates to CLP Lawyers, and eventually to CLP Legal, a modern firm with two offices and a dedicated team of over 20 professionals. Over the years, CLP Legal has remained focused on its core mission: delivering maximum compensation and maintaining a strong, client-first approach in every matter.
While Michael later left the firm to pursue other interests in the legal field, Vince continued to lead the firm, whilst Basil engaged in commercial legal work outside the practice. In 2011, John Cooke joined the firm, initially as a senior practitioner and soon after, as a Director, bringing fresh energy and experience until his retirement in October 2023 to pursue his personal passions—triathlons and Buddhism.
Today, CLP Legal stands as a testament to over two decades of dedication, evolution, and resilience. With Vince now transitioning toward full retirement in 2025, the firm remains firmly grounded in the values it was built on: integrity, compassion, and results.
We’re proud of where we started and excited for what’s ahead—continuing to serve our clients with the same personal attention and professional excellence that has defined CLP Legal since day one.
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Meet Our Team
Vince Calalesina
Born in Argentina of Italian parentage, Vince’s family migrated to Fremantle in 1964 when he was 11. After graduating with a BA and Dip Ed in 1975, he began a career in teaching high school English and Italian. Switching to the legal profession in 1989, he completed his law degree at Deakin University and was admitted to practice in 2002. Fluent in Italian and Spanish, Vince can communicate with and assist members of Italian, Spanish and Portuguese communities.
Basil Lenzo
Basil was born in Fremantle and is fluent in and of Italian parentage. After establishing a successful career in engineering, he expanded his expertise into the legal profession. Completing his law degree at Deakin University, Basil was admitted to practice in 2002. His legal career began with Minter Ellison, before establishing his own practice. To complement his engineering skillset, Basil specialises in corporate and commercial law, providing advice on building and construction, property, resource and mining law, in addition to business advice and litigation.
John Cooke
John was born in Singapore and is fluent in Malay. He completed his law degree at Bristol University in England in 1987, where he spent the following year at the Council of Legal Education and obtained his admission to Gray’s Inn in London. In 1989 John arrived in Australia and was admitted to practice in the ACT and WA. He specialises in compensation law and has conducted many successful accident claims. Currently the Vice President of the Ethnic Disability Advocacy Centre, John is dedicated to assisting and advising accident victims and people with special needs.
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If you have experienced a personal injury in your workplace or public space and you are seeking legal advice from a trusted and experienced law firm in Perth, please contact us today on 9339 9600. We will be by your side every step of the legal process.
