My areas of Expertise

Specialist Practice Areas

Industry Expertise

What I like about my work

I thrive on the thrill and unpredictability of the courtroom. It is a constant challenge.

As a litigator, I get to work on cases and disputes which vary greatly. I have to immerse myself in the facts of each case and try to become an expert in often unusual and unique subjects. My job is to learn the intimate details of whatever the case is about – whether it involves the complexities of a client's business, mechanical failures which have caused an accident, or an obscure aspect of scientific research. I enjoy this window into other peoples' businesses, jobs and areas of expertise.

What I've done in the past

I started out as a Barrister in Wellington working for a Senior Barrister. My areas of practice were commercial and criminal litigation and I assisted regularly as junior counsel in High Court trials.

I then left to go travelling overseas. After backpacking through South-East Asia I joined French law firm Gide Loyrette Nouel in Paris, where I assisted with a proceeding before the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia.

After that I moved to London where I worked in the Legal/Compliance department of Chase Manhattan Bank analysing the regulatory environment in which European Stock Exchanges operated. After travelling through Africa, I moved to Amsterdam where I worked as Legal Counsel at United Pan-Europe Communications, a large cable television and telecommunications company.

I returned to New Zealand and joined Anderson Lloyd's common law team in Dunedin in 2002. Since then I've continued to develop my practice in both civil and criminal litigation. I moved to Christchurch in 2004 and became a Partner in 2005.

My approach to working with my clients

I am practical, approachable, professional and, above all, down-to-earth.

I try to work out what my client is looking to achieve and then think about how best to accomplish this through litigation or negotiation strategy. If a settlement can be achieved without the need for court proceedings and is desirable, I work towards this. I recognise that litigation is costly, slow and stressful and is not always the best method of dispute resolution.

Disputes and litigation are, by definition, confrontational and often emotional. I am used to that but I recognise that I am advising clients in what is usually an unpleasant and difficult time for them. I try to make the process as easy as possible by preparing them for the Court or negotiation process and guiding them through it to get the best result for them.

What I enjoy at work

I get involved in some top quality work. The firm is less hierarchical and more down-to-earth than traditional law firms but there is a commitment to excellence which is inspiring. I like the atmosphere created by working among people who are motivated and talented but can also have a laugh.

What I enjoy outside of work

I like running, biking, skiing, reading, creative writing and travel. I also enjoy languages and speak French and (a little) Italian.

What I enjoy about living in the South Island

The beauty of the place and the relaxed attitude. I'm from the North Island originally and love the scenery there too, but I am constantly blown away by how striking the country is down here. The outdoors is so accessible but the cities are interesting enough to be appealing too.

Memberships and Directorships

  • Committee member, Christchurch Women's Lawyers Association.