David G Beck (LLB, Dip Industrial Relations)

David has over 20 years experience in dealing with employment disputes in a variety of settings representing both employees and employers. He will guide and assist you to finding a practical and lasting solution to your problem which could if not resolved by his preferred option of negotiation, involve more formal methods. David firmly believes in resolving employment problems in a pro-active and pragmatic fashion which apart from being cost effective, is designed to minimize ongoing client distress. However, David has extensive experience in appearing for clients at mediation, The Employment Relations Authority and the Employment Court. On a personal level David is a member of St Albans School board, the Community Law Centre board and Catupult Employment Services Trust. Being English by extraction David is a keen soccer fan and devoted to his beloved Newcastle United.

DENNIS E STANDRING (MA LLB DIP ED PSYCH)

Dennis originally trained and practiced as a child and family psychologist and worked in both medical and educational settings. He was also a specialist report writer appointed by the family court to provide psychological evidence to assist lawyers and Judges before and during defended hearings, relating to care (custody) and contact (access) matters and Child Youth & Family service (CYFS) matters.

This combination of skills makes Dennis well equipped to deal with any family matter arising that relates to the care of children. He is also appointed by the Court as a children's lawyer.

Since becoming a lawyer in 1996, Dennis has specialized in Family Law, including relationship property division, along with employment and education law.

The approach Dennis takes with all these matters in the first instance, is one of problem resolution. Apart from being cost effective for clients it is also less emotionally demanding for them. Clients effectively, therefore, run their own cases and remain in control.

Dennis loves his sport with rugby and skiing as his prime sporting passions.

Dennis has three children, all adults now and two grandchildren who live in Melbourne.

PHILLIPA SHAW (LLB Hons)

Phillipa's specialist area is property law and her background as a bank officer in the lending and security areas greatly assists first home buyers particularly as they tackle all the legal and financial requirements for their purchase. Phillipa guides purchasers through each stage of the conveyancing process and prefers to meet face to face with clients to explain their property's title documents and other related reports before confirmation.

If you are considering transferring your assets to a trust, Phillipa can advise on and set up a trust structure appropriate for your situation.

Phillipa also advises on relationship property matters from contracting out agreements through to separation agreements. A problem solving approach is the first preference in resolving relationship property matters but if necessary Phillipa can assist with the court process.

Phillipa also has experience in family, care and contact of children matters, and employment matters. She can assist you in finding a resolution to these issues.

On a personal level Phillipa is married with three teenage children and is an active member of her local Catholic parish. As a Cantabrian born and bred, Phillipa is a vocal supporter of local sporting teams especially the basketball and rugby teams.

ANN FASS (BA LLB)

Ann joined SB Law in 2007 as a new graduate in a change of career after twenty years in social work. On completion of her law degree Ann worked for one year at the Legal Services Agency where she processed applications for legal aid in relation to criminal, family, ACC and employment proceedings.

Ann welcomes enquiries on any family law matter, in which her experience in working with individuals and families in challenging circumstances and across a wide range of nationalities, is of real benefit.

Ann is pleased to assist clients to access the legal aid to which they are entitled.

Ann also assists clients with applications for limited licences for employment related purposes.

Ann is married with two adult daughters. She enjoys reading, gardening and sailing.

LOUISE HOLT (Registered Legal Executive)

With extensive experience working in law, Louise is highly skilled in assisting clients with their matters. Louise has a vibrant and enthusiastic nature that makes her very approachable. Her background working in a criminal law firm has given her strong communication skills that allow her to clarify and demystify the often complex processes of the law.

Louise works primarily in the conveyancing area, but also helps with clients with their legal aid applications, and advises them on their accounts.

Louise was born and bred in England, and is a passionate supporter of all English sporting teams, and also any team David Beckham is in! She is married with two young children and enjoys nothing more than a good “craic” with friends.

CLAIRE COAKLEY (Legal Secretary)

Claire has recently joined us from Auckland, although we don't hold that against her. She was born and bred in the Waikato and as such worked at the Hamilton Family Court for a number of years putting her in good stead for a solid understanding of family law procedures. She has worked as a legal secretary for the past six years dealing with commercial, corporate finance and conveyancing. She now assists in a variety of areas which includes managing legal aid files.

TINA KNIGHT (Legal Assistant)

Tina is our latest English import and with an amicable and engaging manner, she is proficient in providing assistance to both her clients and her peers. This is highly valued as Tina is the first point of call when you contact SB Law. She has extensive experience in law office administration and this is shown through the high level of assistance that she provides.

On a personal level, Tina is married with 2 children. She enjoys sport and has returned to playing netball since arriving here.

JAMES PULLAR (Law Clerk)

James is presently a student studying towards a double degree in Law and Arts at the University of Canterbury and is about to enter his third year of study. James provides assistance to clients and helps them with their general queries, as well as providing assistance to the solicitors in their day to day work.

James has a passion for sport and is especially interested in Basketball in which he plays and officiates.