For lawyers
Specialist Environmental Law Counsel for Legal Teams
Whether you need co-counsel on a complex matter, an opinion on a discrete issue, or representation at a hearing, I provide senior environmental law support that integrates seamlessly with your existing team.
Trusted by infrastructure leaders, project managers and government agencies across Australia and New Zealand
01 — What I offer
Access Expert Advice and Senior Representation Across the Full Spectrum of Environmental and Resource Management Law
Environmental and resource management matters often require specialist expertise that sits outside a general practice or in-house capability. I can step in to provide that expertise or simply extra capacity while you maintain the client relationship and overall conduct of the matter.
My areas of expertise include:
Complex environmental issues requiring specialist knowledge of environmental law including RMA, contaminated land, waste, emissions trading scheme (ETS) obligations or hazardous substances legislation
Resource Management Act matters involving consents, appeals, compliance or enforcement
Enforcement proceedings where your client is facing regulatory action, investigation or prosecution
Environment Court and other Court proceedings requiring specialist advocacy
Compulsory acquisition and public works matters
Climate change and emissions trading scheme obligations, compliance and enforcement
My engagement model is flexible and can be adapted to meet your needs.
02 — How We Work Together
Co-counsel
I work alongside you as specialist environmental counsel. You maintain the client relationship and overall conduct of the matter, I provide specialist environmental law advice and input on strategy.
Discrete advice or opinion
You brief me on a specific environmental law question. I provide written advice or an opinion that you can share with your client.
Hearing representation
I appear for your client in Environment Court proceedings, council hearings or regulatory processes.
Strategic input
When you need an expert environmental law perspective on a complex matter, I can review the file, provide strategic advice, and help you identify risks and opportunities.
Full carriage
When your client needs specialist environmental representation and you’re comfortable referring the matter, I can take full carriage of the case after your introduction.
What you can expect when you work with me
Practical, commercial advice
I focus on outcomes that work in the real world and serve your client’s long-term interests.
No unnecessary complexity
I don’t overcomplicate matters. I explain complex environmental law issues in plain language, leaving no room for ambiguity or confusion.
Collaborative approach
I work with you, not around you. I respect your client relationship, keep you informed, and ensure my input integrates seamlessly with your overall strategy.
Responsive and accessible
I respond promptly to instructions and queries.
Predictable costs
I provide clear fee estimates and timeframes upfront.
No conflicts or competition
As an independent barrister, I don’t compete for your clients. I’m here to build long-lasting partnerships and to support your practice, not compete with your practice.
“After being briefed as lead counsel in a technically complex Resource Management Act judicial review, I was looking for deep environmental law expertise to assist with reviewing expert evidence and technical submissions.
Ana filled that role, and I found her a pleasure to work with. She was always highly responsive, and she was knowledgeable and robust in her review of the legal issues and expert evidence. Her work greatly contributed to the successful outcome secured for our client.”
Barrister, Wellington
Recognition & Affiliations
03 — My Qualifications
Experience & Credentials
15 years experience in environmental law across New Zealand and Australia
Barrister of the High Court of New Zealand
Solicitor of the Supreme Court of New South Wales, Australia
Former Senior Associate at Dentons New Zealand
Trained at Baker McKenzie, HWL Ebsworth and Maddocks in Australia
Advised Crown entities including NZTA, local government, major corporates and private clients
Appeared in Environment Court and represented clients at council hearings
Doyle’s Guide Rising Star – Environmental, Planning & Local Government Law
04 – Fee Arrangements
For discrete pieces of work such as written opinions, advice on specific questions, or hearing appearances, I can often provide a fixed fee estimate upfront.
For ongoing matters or co-counsel arrangements, I work on an hourly basis with transparent reporting.
I’m flexible about billing arrangements and can invoice you or bill your client directly depending on your preference.
I don’t charge for initial discussions about whether I can assist with a matter.
My focus is on providing value and providing specialist expertise without the large firm overheads.
Ready to work together?
05 — Get Started
Step 01
Get in Touch
Book an obligation-free call with me to discuss your matter and how I might assist.
Step 02
Get Specialist Support
Access senior expertise that integrates with your overall ways of working and adds additional capability and capacity to your team.
Step 03
Deliver Exceptional Results
With an expert in your corner, you can strengthen your reputation as a firm that provides exceptional long-term results for your clients.