Lawyer for Child (2025) (On Demand)

This On Demand was recorded on 10 September 2025.

This session explores the role of Lawyers for Child in the Family Court, focusing on key responsibilities, legal framework, and best practice standards. It covers how lawyers advocate for children’s best interests, facilitate their participation, and navigate ethical and cultural challenges. Attendees will gain practical insights into appointment processes, reporting duties, and managing confidentiality, ensuring effective and independent child representation.

Learning Outcomes

Understand the statutory and procedural framework governing Lawyers for the Child
Identify key responsibilities and ethical duties in representing children’s best interests
Navigate the appointment process and criteria for Lawyers for the Child
Learn key principles of child advocacy and participation

Who Should Watch?

This On Demand is designed for family lawyers and practitioners working in the Family Court who want to either improve their understanding of the role of Lawyer for Child or enhance their expertise in acting for children under the Care of Children and Oranga Tamariki Acts.

Presenters

Catherine Townsend, Barrister, Fitzroy Chambers
Pip Cobcroft, Barrister, Fitzroy Chambers

Catherine Townsend

After commencing a Bachelor of Social Science in 1984, Catherine was accepted by Auckland Law School and graduated with an LLB from the University of Auckland in 1988, before departing NZ on her “OE”.

In London, she worked for a criminal law practice as an Outdoor Clerk. During her time in this role, she had the privilege of assisting senior barristers and QCs during many criminal trials at the Old Bailey and various Crown Courts in the greater London area. She then worked for the London Borough of Hackney in a Care and Protection Law role, before returning to NZ.

Upon her return to NZ, Catherine undertook her Professionals course, and obtained a role as staff solicitor (in mainly Family Law) at Shieff Angland under the mentorship of Simon Jefferson (now QC). She was quickly appointed an associate, and then senior associate. She was selected for the Lawyer for Child(ren) list in 1993 or 4.

In mid 1994, she moved to the Family Law team at Simpson Grierson, under the leadership of (now Justice) Ann Hinton.

In 1996 she established herself as a Barrister Sole.

Catherine specialises in all areas of Family Law, but has maintained a strong interest in Child Law – and in particular child psychology (including child development) and patterns in parental behaviour impacting on children’s perceptions.

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Pip Cobcroft

Pip is an experienced litigator, specialising in
family law.

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Details

CPD Hours: 1.50hr

Pricing Details

Ticket Price

Member: $155 GST
Non-Member: $220 GST