Emily joined Ford Sumner in 2022 as a Legal Automation Assistant while completing the final year of her Law and Commerce studies at Victoria University of Wellington. Prior to this, she was employed as a Summer Clerk at a national law firm in Christchurch. Emily has also worked at Community Law, where she assisted members of the community to resolve a range of education-related issues.

Emily now works as a Lawyer in the Employment and Litigation Team at Ford Sumner. She has experience drafting contracts for clients in a variety of sectors. Emily has also been involved in litigated matters, particularly construction disputes.

Emily’s experience extends to property law, including commercial leasing, conveyancing, resource management and intellectual property matters.

Having dealt with a wide range of matters from both a front-end and back-end perspective, Emily is well-placed to deliver sound, solution-focused assistance to Ford Sumner’s clients. Emily is also a strong proponent of alternative dispute resolution and where appropriate, she looks to achieve clients’ aims using the most pragmatic and cost-effective approach available.

Outside of the office, Emily has a passion for languages, particularly French, which she enjoys practicing and exploring in her free time. She is also committed to staying active, whether it’s through running, fitness activities, or finding new ways to keep moving. For Emily, balancing her professional work with personal pursuits is key to maintaining her energy and focus.