Nicole Dore enjoys going back to the basics of the law when developing a case
Nicole Dore got her first taste of the law through 80s and 90s TV shows, but it was books that awakened her sense of justice – particularly To Kill a Mockingbird.
The family law expert, who last year was promoted to director at Henderson Reeves, champions wellbeing and the ability to work flexibly in the profession. In this September 2022 interview conducted shortly after her promotion, Dore shares her favourite part of being a lawyer and talks the firm’s coaching and leadership initiatives.
What made you choose a career in law, and what's your favourite part of the job?
My first exposure to the law was the TV shows of the late 80s and 90s. They always portrayed the law as being so glamorous – I loved the look of it. However, my first real sense of justice was sparked through books – who can look past our fourth form required reading, To Kill a Mockingbird? I was lucky that when I reached university, I enjoyed the actual study of law and this has continued.
My favourite part of the job to is be able to go back to the basics to research the law and develop a case.
What is going on at the firm? Are there any new programs and initiatives that you’re particularly interested in?
We have a focus on coaching and leadership. I believe the coaching leadership model offers everyone in the firm the opportunity to develop and grow – whether it be advancing their careers or just enjoying their job more.
What tech-related initiatives adopted by the firm, if any, are you most excited about?
Streamlining WFH and WFW – this has offered so much flexibility in the way we work.
What should the profession focus more on?
Our wellbeing – not just a focus on holidays but also our day-to-day wellbeing. We spend a lot of time talking about it but it is so important to put that talk into action. [Last year,] here in Tai Tokerau, our courts contacted the local bar and asked if lawyers would be available for court in the first half of January 2023. This was such a welcome relief and also a recognition that everyone is need of a holiday.
If you were given an opportunity to spend a day with anyone (living or dead), who would it be and why?
My mum. She died in 2020.
