SRB promotes two to special counsel

Saunders Robinson Brown (SRB) has promoted senior team members Henny Fairgray and Vanessa Baakman to special counsel.

Fairgray first joined SRB more than six years ago. The seasoned lawyer works with the family team and specialises in family law. She has assisted clients with matters such as contracting out (pre-nuptial) agreements, separation and relationship property agreements and proceedings, and day-to-day care and contact arrangements for children. She has also handled guardianship disputes such as relocation of children, orders preventing removal of children, adoption and surrogacy, family violence and dissolution of marriage.

Employment law specialist Baakman has been a part of SRB since 2018. She has acted for employers and employees across all types of employment matters.

She has provided advice on matters involving employment agreements, contracts for service, staff policies, restructuring, incentive schemes, medical incapacity, post-employment restraints, the Education and Training Act, Privacy Act matters, and health and safety obligations. She also guides clients on employment claims in the Employment Relations Authority, and advises from mediation through to hearings.

“These promotions are very well deserved. Both Henny and Vanessa are exceptional senior lawyers and experts in their respective fields. In hand with their broad experience, specialist legal knowledge and expertise both excel in fostering trusted client relationships in what can often be a demanding and emotional time for clients,” said Jonathan Gillard, SRB managing partner.

In addition, the firm promoted Ramses Hunt and Sarah Duff to associate in the employment and property teams, respectively. Hunt has been with SRB since April 2020 and specialises in employment law, representing both employers and employees. Duff joined the firm following her graduation in 2018; she advises clients on matters involving all aspects of residential property.

Jenny Townsend was also elevated to associate–registered legal executive within the trusts and estates team. Her appointment is subject to official approval from the NZILE. Meanwhile, Karina McGillivray-Seaton and Akshay Kumar of the commercial team were also promoted to senior solicitors; they advise on commercial matters such as property transactions, company law, leasing, and commercial contracts.

Natasha Lamont of the property team was elevated to legal assistant. She has guided clients on the sale and purchase of residential properties since joining the firm in 2018. 

All promotions took effect on 1 October.