Family law isn't just about legal outcomes—it's about creating positive change for people and their whānau during their most vulnerable times.
How I work
Family law disputes are among life's most challenging moments. I provide strategic, empathetic advocacy that puts people—not just process—at the centre, helping you navigate complex legal territory with clarity and confidence.
My practice is grounded in thorough preparation, clear communication, and collaborative relationships with instructing solicitors. Whether representing clients in court, mediations, or providing strategic advice, I focus on achieving fair outcomes while supporting you through the process.
I believe in transparent communication throughout the legal process. You'll always understand where your matter stands, what options are available, and the likely costs involved. I work flexibly to accommodate urgent matters and maintain availability for the unexpected challenges that family law can present.
Whether you're an individual seeking representation or a solicitor looking to brief experienced family law counsel, I'm here to provide the expertise, empathy, and strategic thinking your matter deserves.
How I can help you
I provide specialist advocacy and legal advice across all areas of family law, bringing calm, strategic representation to complex and emotionally charged matters. My practice focuses on achieving fair outcomes whilst prioritising the wellbeing of families and children.
Relationship
Property
Property division can be one of the most contentious aspects of separation. I provide strategic advice on the classification and valuation of assets, including family homes, businesses, KiwiSaver, and debt allocation. I'm experienced in complex property matters involving trusts, overseas assets, and cases where the equal sharing presumption may not apply.
I also advise couples entering relationships on contracting out agreements (pre-nups) to provide clarity and protection for the future.
Family
Violence
Family violence matters require specialised knowledge and a trauma-informed approach. I represent clients seeking protection orders and those defending applications, always with careful attention to safety and the emotional realities involved. I work closely with support services to ensure comprehensive protection and understand the intersection between family violence and other family law issues.
Care
of Children
Navigating parenting arrangements after separation requires careful consideration of what's truly in your children's best interests. I provide clear guidance on day-to-day care, contact arrangements, and decision-making responsibilities. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings, I advocate for solutions that support stable, nurturing relationships between children and their parents.
My appointment as Lawyer for the Child demonstrates the court's confidence in my ability to understand complex family dynamics and represent children's voices with sensitivity and expertise.
Spousal
Maintenance
When ongoing financial support is needed after separation, I help determine fair and sustainable maintenance arrangements. I provide clear advice on entitlements, capacity to pay, and how maintenance intersects with other financial settlements.
Court Representation
& Advocacy
I appear regularly in the Family Court and provide strong, well-prepared advocacy in hearings, judicial conferences, and settlement conferences. My courtroom approach is professional, persuasive, and focused on achieving practical outcomes that serve my clients' long-term interests.
Mediation
& Dispute Resolution
Many family law matters can be resolved outside court through skilled negotiation and mediation. I work collaboratively with other professionals to find solutions that reduce conflict and preserve important relationships, particularly where children are involved.
About
Behind every legal issue are real people facing emotional upheaval, and I bring both expertise and empathy to every case.
After nearly a decade as a family lawyer, I started my own practice to create a more values-driven, intentional way of working — one where I could offer my clients expertise alongside empathy, calm guidance, and cultural awareness.
My practice as a family law barrister is grounded in a commitment to clear, compassionate advocacy for people navigating some of the most emotionally complex times in their lives: separation, care of children, family violence, property division, and rebuilding futures.
I specialise in relationship property, family violence, and care of children matters, bringing strong preparation, pragmatic advice, and advocacy that puts people — not just process — at the centre. My appointment as Lawyer for the Child reflects the court's trust in my balanced judgement and deep understanding of complex family dynamics.
What sets my practice apart is the combination of deep family law expertise with a calm, empathetic, and culturally aware approach. I don't just advocate — I listen, I prepare thoroughly, and I work in a way that helps people feel supported through incredibly challenging circumstances.
With a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Political Studies and a Bachelor of Laws with Honours, I bring both conceptual thinking and a keen eye for detail that allows me to identify unique approaches that can be used to a client's advantage.
Beyond the courtroom, I'm actively involved in advancing gender equity as Vice President of the Auckland Women Lawyers' Association and was Co Editor-in-Chief of Te Aho Kawe Kaupapa Ture a Ngā Wāhine | New Zealand Women's Law Journal. I'm also a mentor with the He Ira Wāhine University of Auckland Law Women Mentoring Programme.
I work collaboratively with solicitors, social workers, and other professionals, taking care to ensure clients feel informed, heard, and supported every step of the way. I focus on outcomes that prioritise long-term wellbeing for clients and their whānau.
When I need to recharge, you'll find me exploring New Zealand's great outdoors on multi-day tramps, where I can lose myself in nature and return with fresh perspective for the challenges ahead.
Get in touch
Based at Hobson Chambers in Auckland Central, I represent clients throughout New Zealand.
Available for urgent matters and flexible consultation options.