One of the new partners used to be president of the Australian Association of Crown Prosecutors
Three lawyers have joined the partnership at Meredith Connell, bringing the total number of partners at the firm to 33.
Matthew Nathan, Chris Merrick and Jacob Barry will be bringing various areas of specialisation to their new roles.
“Matthew, Chris and Jacob will bring fresh ideas and perspectives. Their leadership skills, exceptional client support and personal values further strengthen our partnership and expand our offering to clients”, CEO Sophie Schwass said.
Nathan (Ngāti Whātua, Te Uri-o-Hau) commenced with Meredith Connell in 2021. He is part of the Crown specialist team and focuses on the prosecution of homicide, serious sexual offending, organised crime and complex fraud.
For 20 years, he prosecuted serious and complex crime “on both sides of the Tasman”, the firm said. As a trial and appellate lawyer, he helmed over 200 criminal trials.
Nathan was formerly deputy director of public prosecutions in Australia’s Northern Territory and was named president of the Australian Association of Crown Prosecutors in 2019. His appointment to partner at Meredith Connell is subject to Law Society approval.
Merrick (Te Whakapiko o Ngāti Manaia, Ngāti Wai, Ma’ufanga, Niua) speaks te reo Māori, and has represented Te Hunga Rōia Māori in front of the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. His team tackles Te Ao Māori and Pacific legal issues, advising on system change, capability building and cultural and legal matters.
He has served as counsel assisting the Abuse in Care Royal Commission and inquiry lawyer to the Dilworth independent inquiry.
Barry holds a master’s degree from Harvard Law School, and concentrates on regulatory prosecutions. He advises the Commerce Commission, and is a senior Crown prosecutor who has led about 50 criminal courts before the District and High Courts.
He has handled appeals for the Crown in the Court of Appeal, and notably worked on high-profile sexual violence cases in New Zealand. He returned to Meredith Connell in 2017 after completing his Harvard study.
Barry’s appointment is subject to Law Society approval.
The firm also elevated 15 to senior associates and associates.
