Kelsey joined HHL as a graduate in 2023 after winter clerking at the firm in 2022. HHL appealed to Kelsey because of the quality of corporate work that HHL advises on, while maintaining a small, close-knit team and collegial working style. Kelsey wanted to be involved in some of New Zealand’s leading and most complex corporate transactions, she knew that HHL was the place for that.
Why HHL
I chose HHL as the firm to begin my legal career with because I wanted to learn from some of the best corporate lawyers in New Zealand. HHL is committed to mentorship – not only are you exposed to incredibly interesting work at the high end of the market, but you also receive unmatched guidance throughout the learning process. Beginning as a graduate at HHL comes with a steep learning curve, you receive a significant level of responsibility from an early stage. However, the mentorship you receive along the way gives you all the support you need.
The breadth of work
HHL’s unique structure means that as a graduate you have the opportunity to work with all of the firm’s Directors. As a result, you gain exposure to all areas of corporate law from public company takeovers, private M&A to complex corporate governance advice and much more. This breadth of experience is not something you receive at a large commercial law firm in New Zealand.
Quality of work experience
I knew that coming to HHL would allow me to build a strong foundation to my legal career. The quality of work experience you receive as a junior lawyer is unparalleled. HHL holds a significant market-share for complex corporate transactions in New Zealand. As a graduate at HHL, you have the privilege of seeing those transactions from start to finish and gaining insights into the broader commercial context those transactions sit within. Directors and Associates always take the time to explain to you how your work as a junior plays a part in the overall transaction, allowing you to contribute and add value in a meaningful way.
Culture
As a boutique law firm, HHL operates as a small, tight-knit team. The team is driven and hard-working, but at the same time always ready to have fun and enjoy their time together. We have regular firm functions and you’ll frequently find the team at Amano.
