The firm also welcomed a new senior lawyer to its Queenstown office
Duncan Cotterill has promoted 2022 Rising Star Peter Fernando to its partnership.
Fernando’s appointment brings the total of number of partners at to 49, making Duncan Cotterill the second largest firm in the country by size of partnership.
Fernando is part of the corporate and commercial team in Christchurch, specialising in information technology, consumer, and IP law. His practice includes supporting public and private sector clients with procurement and complex contracts with technology partners and advising major technology firms and start-ups.
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A privacy law and cyber risk expert, he helps clients manage privacy and cyber incidents and threats and understand their obligations under the Privacy Act 2020 and related laws. He also acts for vendors and purchasers in mergers and acquisitions and has particular interest in software-as-a-service and other technology businesses.
In February, NZ Lawyer named the then-senior associate as one of the profession’s Rising Stars.
“It’s no surprise that Peter has been recognised by the industry for his outstanding achievements – even as we grow, he has proved to be a standout member of the team for his in-depth knowledge of technology issues, supporting many large public sector clients through unprecedented digital transformation,” Duncan Cotterill chair Richard Lang said. “We know he’ll be equally capable as a mentor to junior members of our team, and we congratulate him on his success.”
New special counsel
The firm also announced the appointment of Lily Barnes to the role of special counsel.
Barnes’ hiring adds to the “depth of talent and expertise” in the Queenstown office. She will work alongside partners Alastair Holland and Louise McNaughton as the office continues its growth trajectory in the Southern Lakes region.
Barnes is a commercial and property lawyer with extensive expertise in property transactions, including residential, rural, and commercial conveyancing and commercial leasing, as well as property development.
In addition, she deals with various commercial matters, such as business and share acquisitions and disposals, terms of trade, business contracts, and business structuring. She acts for a wide array of clients, ranging from first home buyers and start-up businesses to large-scale commercial operators and property developers.
Prior to joining Duncan Cotterill, she was a senior associate at Aspiring Law for over a year. He also held associate positions at Anderson Lloyd and Saunders & Co Lawyers.