Dentons is delighted to announce the promotions of Daniel McLaughlin to Special Counsel in the firm’s Private Wealth team, and Ashleigh Ooi and Christine James to Senior Associate in the Corporate and Commercial team.

Daniel’s promotion is a testament to his exceptional expertise, client relationships and leadership in the Auckland Private Wealth team.

Specialising in strategic, high-value personal asset planning and structuring, Daniel McLaughlin has developed a reputation for providing insightful, pragmatic advice on the organisation and regulation of private wealth. He is an expert in trusts and trusteeship issues, succession and estates, relationship property, charities and philanthropy, and various compliance regimes. 

Daniel acts for a range of domestic and international clients, including private clients, family offices, trustees, and financial institutions. His prior background in tax law uniquely positions him to identify potential tax issues related to clients' personal asset planning, ensuring comprehensive and effective solutions. 

Private Wealth Practice leader and Partner Silvia McPherson says, “Daniel is a true asset to the team. He demonstrates excellent leadership and empathetic and effective client skills. Clients appreciate his expertise and practical advice. Daniel should be so proud of his achievements and I would like to congratulate him on his promotion.”

On Ashleigh and Christine’s promotion, Corporate and Commercial Leader, Chris Parke says “Congratulations to Ashleigh and Christine on their well-deserved promotions. Ashleigh's expertise in technology, privacy, and intellectual property is a driving force behind our clients' ability to introduce cutting-edge products to the New Zealand market. Meanwhile, Christine's wealth of experience in corporate and commercial issues across diverse industries reflects her unwavering commitment to fostering strong client connections.”

Ashleigh Ooi brings a wealth of expertise to her role, focusing on technology, privacy, and intellectual property. Her adept guidance empowers clients to bring innovative products and solutions to the New Zealand market. With a broad range of experience in commercial matters, including software development, licensing, SaaS, and other "as a service" offerings, Ashleigh excels in the commercialization of intellectual property, navigating intricate patent, copyright, and trademark licensing arrangements.

Ashleigh's client portfolio spans diverse industries, including IT and software, financial services, broadcasting and media, construction and manufacturing, health services, and FMCG. Drawing on her background in litigation and dispute resolution, Ashleigh is committed to delivering pragmatic and comprehensive advice that addresses the core issues crucial to businesses.

Christine James’ expertise lies in advising clients on various corporate and commercial matters. Specialising in commercial contracting, mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, business restructuring, shareholder arrangements, and corporate governance, Christine is dedicated to building strong relationships with her clients.

Committed to a collaborative approach, Christine takes the time to understand the unique needs and concerns of each client. With a practical mindset and robust legal expertise, Christine James is well-equipped to guide clients through the intricacies of corporate and commercial law.

In this latest round of promotions, Elaine Deng in the Real Estate team, Cashill Tims in the Corporate and Commercial team, and Sally Togher from the Employment team have also been promoted to Associate.

These promotions not only signify individual accomplishments but also strengthen Dentons’ position as a leading force in providing exceptional legal services in the private wealth and corporate and commercial landscape in New Zealand. 

About Dentons

Across over 80 countries, Dentons helps you grow, protect, operate and finance your organization by providing uniquely global and deeply local legal solutions. Polycentric, purpose-driven and committed to inclusion, diversity, equity and sustainability, we focus on what matters most to you. www.dentons.com