We believe every client should get the same high level of service from whoever they engage across the firm - every engagement, every time. We call this the Cochrane Law way.
Director
LLB, BCom
Taking over the firm in 2021, Michael had the vision of modernising the business utilising technology to create more efficiencies throughout the firm.
From his first role working in commercial and property teams in Nelson to a successful career working for a large international firm in London and then returning to his home town of Palmerston North, Michael has established himself as a trusted advisor for clients with property, company and commercial law issues as well as wills and trusts. He is a strategist and relentlessly positive cheerleader for the Cochrane Law team and is appreciated by clients for his professional, friendly and practical approach.
Michael’s interests outside of work are spending time with his lovely wife Anna and their three boys, catching up with friends, playing and watching sport, reading and travel.
Solicitor
LL.B, B.A
Tracy is our family law specialist, practising in most areas of family law including care of children, family violence and all aspects of relationship property. The Family Court work she undertakes includes
applications for appointment of a welfare guardian and/or property manager for people who no longer have capacity to make decisions.
Obtaining a double degree in Law and Arts (history) from the University of Canterbury in 2001, she was admitted to the bar in 2002 and has been working as a barrister and solicitor practicing family law in Palmerston North ever since.
Tracy is currently the Chairperson of the Manawatu Family Courts Association. Outside of work her interests include playing hockey, reading and spending time with family and friends. Originally from a farming background, Tracy enjoys spending time on her rural property, gardening and caring for her animals.
Registered Legal Executive - Fellow
Nicole supports the Cochrane Law team as a Legal Executive, delivering advice for residential and commercial conveyancing, estates and asset planning.
Starting as junior receptionist in 2008, in just three years she worked her way towards becoming a legal executive. Nicole is hugely proud of joining the Wellington Central District Branch of Legal Executives, New Zealand in 2019 of which she was the President from October 2020 to October 2022. Nicole is a great asset to the Cochrane Law team and valued by clients. Along with the experience and dedication she brings to the firm, she is also completing her law degree.
Nicole’s interests outside of work include playing social sports and outdoor activities, reading and spending time with friends and family.
Registered Legal Executive – Affiliate
The extensive range of opportunities and skills required to learn is what attracted Amy to a career working for the firm. Acquiring a real passion for the work she does, Amy hopes to further her career in this field and is excited to see how far she can go. With a passion for helping people, Amy began as a receptionist, moved to a typist role and then moved into the role of secretary to Michael Cochrane.
Amy is now working as a registered legal executive after receiving her Legal Executive Diploma at the end of 2022.
Outside of work Amy also really enjoys dance and performing - a large part of what has shaped her into who she is today.
A passion for the outdoors, Amy enjoys tramps and exploring through nature.
Law Clerk
Legal Secretary to Michael Cochrane
With an interest in law from high school, Holly felt the typist role was a perfect fit. Responsibility and challenges are what motivates her, and being in a team environment she thoroughly enjoys being able to help others and learn new things almost every day.
She hopes to begin her study towards becoming a Legal Executive later this month and after three years will have a qualification and from there, hopes to one day have her own clients and perhaps even continue towards a law degree.
Ouside of work, Holly enjoys being with friends and family and especially making and sampling
cockails. With a great love for travel, she can’t wait to explore more of the world once borders open. Some of her favourite destinations so far have been Thailand and Singapore.
