About Us
We are an independent membership organisation for New Zealand’s legal profession. We represent individuals across the entire profession, including law students, legal executives, lawyers, partners, and beyond.
We are passionate advocates for advancing the law profession, facilitating almost 20 committees and hosting country-wide networking events. We create hundreds of hours’ worth of CPD/CLE (Continuing Professional Development/Continuing Legal Education) content each year and provide some of the best legal forms in New Zealand.
The history behind our name
The Law Association of New Zealand Inc. (TLANZ) was formed on 28 March 1879. A meeting of 23 practitioners was held at the Supreme Courthouse at Auckland, convened by F.M.P. Brookfield and Frederick Whitaker, who were also elected as the first-ever Vice President and President, respectively.
Initially named “The Law Society of the District of Auckland” until 1974, it then became the Auckland District Law Society. Later, with the passing of the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act 2006, localised law societies around the country closed their doors for good, and the Auckland District Law Society Incorporated was formed.
Incorporated under the Incorporated Societies Act 1908, the Rules ensure the only independent representative organisation of over 7,000 members is positioned to carry out collegial, developmental, and representative responsibilities for its members.
In March 2023, ADLS members voted to change the organisation’s name to The Law Association Inc., reflecting their commitment to the legal profession New Zealand-wide. This came after consultation with members, non-members, and The Law Association Council. The brand transformation meant more than just changing our name and logo; it aimed to strengthen the connection with members who have been part of this journey and to lay the foundation for the future. There is a clear commitment to carrying forward the legacy and building on the hard work of current and former members.
Our legacy
Over the last 145 years, we have had 78 presidents, and we are currently led by President Tony Herring. The guidance of the governing Council throughout the years has helped shape what the Law Association is today.
Our members are at the core of what we do. With over 7,000 members across New Zealand, our membership represents a diverse and growing array of legal specialties and backgrounds. Engaging with our members is part of our commitment to supporting the ever-increasing legal community nationwide.
Lawyers thrive on doing exceptional work. The Law Association aims to help members achieve excellence. By bringing a voice, an identity and a sense of belonging to the legal community, The Law Association strives to support the collective advancement of legal practice and laws. As a future-focused and forward-thinking organization, The Law Association is committed to enabling New Zealand’s lawyers to take their work, careers, and our profession to the next level.
Become a Member Today
We are an inclusive, collective voice of the New Zealand legal profession that contributes to the development of a strong and united industry.
Join a community that supports and enables lawyers to thrive, connect, and achieve excellence, working together for a fair and just Aotearoa New Zealand.