Michelle was admitted to practice in 1999. Before joining the firm, Michelle worked for many years in the Privacy Commissioner’s office as the Legal Officer for two consecutive Commissioners and for nearly ten years as an independent reviewer of ACC decisions.
She brings this highly specialised knowledge and expertise to all general civil litigation cases. Building on James’ existing expertise in family and property law, Michelle also deals with family law and relationship property matters, including the drafting and certification of living together and separation agreements – as well as litigating for clients in this area.
“Identifying the most practical and cost-effective solution for a client is the key to providing them with the best legal service.” — Michelle
Before joining James Donovan Solicitors as a solicitor in 2021, I have managed businesses in New Zealand, China, India and Fiji for over ten years.
I have a full-time Masters in Computer Software and applications, Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration, Bachelor in Commerce and Bachelor in Laws academic qualifications.
My business and academic background enables me to provide pragmatic solutions to my clients from both a legal and commercial perspective. I specialise in matters related to the sale and purchase of property and business and advising on discretionary trusts.
Besides expertise in all aspects of residential property agreements, I have hands-on experience in farm (wet and dry) deals, rural and lifestyle blocks, easements and land covenants and with subdivisions acting for developers and builders.
In commercial, I have experience working on variety of sale and purchase of businesses mainly franchisees of service stations, fast food, takeaways, fitness centres, liquor stores, dairy stores and coffee shop chains.
When not working, I enjoy reading and working out in the gym as an amateur bodybuilder.
“Be you never so high, the Law is above you.” — Thomas Fuller, Gnomolgia 1732
Stefeny had been practicing law in Malaysia since 1995 handling civil matters. She has handled full trials and various applications in Courts including High Court.
In 2018, she migrated to New Zealand and completed her Certificate in Legal Studies at AUT in 2020. Pursuant to her admission in 2021, she had since practiced in general practice including relationship property matters involving both contentious and non-contentious matters. She had assisted in these matters which were complex and having to resolve it amicably.
She can assist her clients to make Wills and create their Enduring Power of Attorney understanding the specific needs of each client.
She had managed matters relating to Sale of Residential Properties and Business. Also, she has the experience in preparation of various court documents regarding litigation matters.
She is also fluent in the Malay language.
Daewansh’s journey into law began with a clerkship under a seasoned Barrister. Before joining the firm, Daewansh worked at a reputed financial advisory firm, honing his understanding and capability to support clients in addressing commercial dynamics.
Daewansh can assist with private client and commercial matters ranging from refinances, the sale and purchase of property and businesses, leases, and trust law.
In his spare time, Daewansh enjoys spending time with family, keeping up with sports, and being involved in music.
Jacqui is a Registered Legal Executive who has over 30 years experience in the legal profession graduating with her Legal Executive Diploma in 1992. She enjoys working with residential property transactions and in particular helping first home buyers with their Kiwisaver applications and making transactions as straightforward and stress-free as possible with a friendly, cheerful and relaxed demeanour.
Outside of work, Jacqui enjoys boating, fishing, classic cars and relaxing with a good book.
As a Senior Registered Legal Executive, Frankie possesses extensive legal expertise. Her professional background is robust, particularly in Conveyancing, as well as in the preparation of Enduring Powers of Attorney, Wills, and Estate Administration.
Since attaining her qualification as a Legal Executive in 2013, she has brought a wealth of knowledge and insight to her role. Frankie is highly organised, analytical, energetic, and creative, qualities that she believes enhance every process and situation.
Frankie is an Associate with the NZ Institute of Legal Executives.
In addition, Frankie is fluent in Punjabi.
Paula is a senior legal executive with extensive property expertise. She has been an integral part of our team with over two decades of dedicated service, joining in 1998 shortly after David Jury established the firm. Paula’s expertise lies primarily in property conveyancing, where her attention to detail and ability to be one step ahead of the game, ensures smooth and efficient transactions for our clients. Paula also provides a broad range of support which extends to areas such as lending, commercial law, trusts, relationship property, asset and estate planning.
Outside of her professional commitments, Paula enjoys spending time with her family, outdoor activities and the companionship of her family’s two dogs Harry and Missy.
I am a Registered Legal Executive with over 10 years experience in the legal field. I specialise in all aspects of conveyancing including but not limited to sales, purchases, refinancing, Occupational Rights Agreements, Enduring Powers of Attorney, Wills, Relationship Property matters, Estates, and associated transactions.
My determination to further enhance my knowledge and experience led me to become a proud holder of a Post Graduate Diploma gained in Business Administration studied at the University of Cape Town and Stellenbosch University in South Africa through to Law Office and proud holder of the Legal Executive certification and qualification gained through New Zealand Qualification Framework with Open Polytechnic obtaining the Level 6 Diploma via (NZILE) New Zealand Institute of Legal Executives.
I enjoy the challenge of working in a busy environment and takes a pragmatic approach to all matters. Outside of work I enjoy socialising, listening to jazz music, dancing and spending time with family.
With over 12 years of business experience, including three years as a financial advisor, Ajit brings a wealth of expertise to his role as Practice Manager at David Jury Law.
He oversees key functions such as marketing, business development, human resources, IT, and operations, ensuring seamless day-to-day operations while managing client relationships, and strategic partnerships.
Ajit is focused on driving strategic decision-making, budgeting, and supporting both staff and partners, with an emphasis on people management, integrity, and staying ahead of technological advancements.
Despite challenges like regulatory changes and talent acquisition, his greatest satisfaction comes from fostering the firm’s growth and ensuring its long-term success.