The People

The people who’ll stand beside you.

A specialist criminal defence team across Auckland and Northland — led by Principal Sumudu Thode, with senior lawyers, lawyers, law clerks and a support team. Whatever you’re facing, there’s someone here who can help.

Filter 10 team members
Sumudu Thode
Principal
Sumudu Thode

Criminal defence and Legal Aid to PAL 4, including cases carrying life imprisonment. Vice President of the Criminal Bar Association of New Zealand.

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John Moroney
Senior Associate
John Moroney

Criminal defence, Legal Aid PAL 3 and parole hearings. Often appointed by the Court as Stand-by Counsel or Amicus.

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Gerry Skinner
Senior Associate
Gerry Skinner

Over 20 years in the NZ Police before defence. Legal Aid PAL 1; duty lawyer at Whangārei and Kaitaia District Courts.

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Lawyer
Jonathon Pitcon

Former Police Sergeant and Prosecutor of 12+ years, now defending — with an insider’s knowledge of the system.

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Lawyer
Benjamin Pownall

Prisoner advocacy and human rights, from the District Court to Supreme Court appeals.

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Law Clerk
Morgan Wilkins

Final-year LLB at the University of Auckland with a strong interest in criminal law.

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Law Clerk
Samara Court

Final-year LLB at the University of Auckland, based in our Albany office. Passionate about access to justice.

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Practice Manager
Kathryn Elliman

Deep knowledge of the criminal justice system and court processes; our Practice Manager since 2021.

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Office Administrator
Tanya Grant

Supports our lawyers with Ministry of Justice obligations and invoicing; with the firm since 2019.

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Not sure who to speak to? We’ll point you to the right person.

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