JAMES DONOVAN LAWYERS

Insight. Experience. Diligence.

Who we are

Since 1970 James Donovan Solicitors has worked with the Howick, Botany, Beachlands and surrounding communities to grow businesses and help families prosper. James originally located to Howick with his wife, Marie (subsequently the Principal of Botany Downs Primary) because of her family connections here. His first office was in lower Picton Street, the firm later moved to its current location – the salubrious heights of upper Picton Street.

A long-serving member of the local Rotary, Honorary Solicitor to St Johns, and valued legal advisor to many in the Howick community, James has now transitioned into a consultancy role as Senior Solicitor and Principal; his daughter Michelle – who has worked as a Solicitor in the practice since 2016 – has taken on the day-to-day management of the firm.

 Michelle builds on the the firm’s existing strengths in elder law, conveyencing, property law, trusts, and estates by bringing expertise in family law, particularly relationship property. Michelle oversaw  the rejuvenation of the offices, completing a major renovation in late 2023. “We’re a multi-generational law firm”, says Michelle, “We have worked with the grandparents and parents of many of our clients, helping them structure their affairs through all stages of life.”

 As Howick and the wider area has evolved, so has the practice. Our registered Legal Executive Vanessa Martin works alongside Andrew Hou (fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese) who has recently joined as a Solictor working in conveyancing, immigration, employment, and commercial law.  Andrew’s legal skills are complemented by his 10 years of accountancy experience as a CPA.

 Advice on structuring your business and family assets is an enduring strength of the practice – creating trusts that can flex with changes in your life, and which minimise risk. Advising older clients and their families is another area of expertise – ensuring families are well-protected and prepared for life’s changes.

 After fifty years serving the legal needs of the wider Howick/Botany area, and with a substantial new branch in Blackhawk Law in Pukekohe, James Donovan Solicitors are well positioned to continue helping their communities to grow and flourish through the next fifty years.

Email: info@jamesdonovan.co.nz

Phone:  09 534 7169

22 Picton St, Howick
PO Box 38-133
Howick, Auckland