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We’re pleased to shine a light on Marta Black, an Associate in our Dispute Resolution team. Since joining Willis Legal in 2022, Marta has become a valued member of our Dispute Resolution team. She is known for her calm, thoughtful approach, and her ability to bring clarity to even the most complex disputes. Marta works across a wide range of civil litigation, with a particular focus on contentious trust matters and complex relationship property disputes. These areas often involve significant assets and sensitive family dynamics, and Marta is recognised for the steady guidance she brings to her clients throughout the process. Marta appears regularly in the range of courts in the civil jurisdiction. Before entering practice, she worked as a Judge’s Clerk at the High Court. That experience gave her a strong foundation in legal analysis and a close understanding of how complex decisions are made, something that continues to shape her work today.  When asked what motivates her, Marta says she is driven by the challenge of providing accurate, timely, and practical advice. She enjoys the intellectual side of litigation and the satisfaction of solving difficult problems. “ I enjoy a complex puzzle and looking at a problem from all angles to find a solution that delivers results for our clients ,” she says. That mindset has seen her navigate some memorable matters, including acting in a contentious company dispute involving prejudice to shareholders, which ultimately led to a formal proof hearing in related relationship property proceedings. Another standout was a six‑week breach of contract trial in Auckland. It was hard‑fought, strategically demanding, and ultimately successful. Outside work, Marta enjoys the best of Hawke’s Bay life. She loves spending time with her young family and their two beagles, heading to the beach, and embracing her new hobby of camping (or glamping, as she admits with a smile). When asked what she finds most rewarding about her role, her answer is simple: “ Interesting work, with good people .”

Why it’s worth reviewing your will, trust and Enduring Powers of Attorney

A new year often brings fresh plans and new possibilities. For many people, that includes thinking about a change in where, or how, they live. Whether you are planning to buy your first home, move somewhere new, or sell a property in 2026, good preparation starts well before an agreement is signed. Property transactions often take longer than people expect. There are documents to review, decisions to make, and steps that need to happen in the right order. Starting early gives you more control, more confidence, and fewer surprises along the way. It is all about setting yourself up for a smoother journey. If you are thinking about selling A successful sale begins with understanding your property’s paperwork. Taking time now to check a few key areas can save you stress later. Title details: Easements, covenants, and other restrictions can affect how a buyer views your property. Knowing what is on your title helps you prepare for questions before they arise. LIM and property file information: Councils hold a lot of information about your property. Ordering these documents early gives you a clear picture of what a buyer will see. Building work and consents: If you have made alterations, it is important to confirm that the right consents and code compliance certificates are in place. Missing paperwork is one of the most common causes of delays or last-minute renegotiations. Identifying any issues early means you can deal with them on your terms, without pressure once an offer arrives. If you are thinking about buying Buyers benefit just as much from early preparation. A little groundwork now can make you a stronger, more confident purchaser when the right property appears. Understand the agreement: Sale and purchase agreements are legally binding. Knowing the key terms, conditions, and timelines ahead of time helps you move quickly without feeling rushed. Get finance ready: Talking to your mortgage broker or lender early means you will understand what conditions may apply and how much flexibility you have. Plan your due diligence: From building reports to title checks, due diligence is easier when you are not racing the clock. Early advice helps you know what to look for and what questions to ask. The biggest advantage is getting legal advice before you sign, not after. It is about being informed and prepared. Why timing matters When people leave things too late, they often end up making decisions under pressure. Important details get missed. Red flags in contracts or property information go unnoticed. And what should be an exciting life moment becomes unnecessarily stressful for you and your whānau. How early legal advice helps Starting the conversation early means you can: Understand risks and obligations before you commit. Get clarity on timelines, conditions, and key milestones. Move forward smoothly once you are ready to buy or sell. It is all about giving yourself the best chance of a straightforward, stress-free experience. Thinking about a move this year? Let’s talk You do not need to be ready to transact to get in touch. A short conversation now can save time, cost, and uncertainty later. If a property move is on your radar for 2026, our team is here to offer clear advice and practical guidance every step of the way.

The start of a new year is a natural time to set direction, reset priorities, and think about where you want your business to head. Strategy is not just about operations or day‑to‑day work. Strong legal foundations play a big part in supporting growth, resilience, and confident decision making. Many businesses grow and evolve faster than their original legal setup, which means the beginning of the year is a great moment to check that everything still fits. When your legal framework matches your strategy, decisions become easier and growth becomes smoother. Governance: Clarity at the top Good governance is not just for large companies. Even owner‑managed businesses benefit from clear roles, responsibilities, and decision‑making processes. When everyone understands who does what, and how key decisions are made, it reduces confusion and lowers risk as the business grows or changes. Solid governance gives you a framework you can rely on, especially when the pace picks up. Shareholder agreements: Planning for the ‘what‑ifs’ A shareholder agreement is one of the most useful tools a business can have. In plain English, it sets out how shareholders enter or exit the business, what happens if there is a dispute or a deadlock, and how changes in personal circumstances are handled. These are much easier conversations to have early, when everyone is aligned, rather than during a stressful moment. A clear agreement protects relationships and helps the business stay steady through change. Succession planning: Thinking beyond today Succession planning is not just about retirement. It also covers illness, unexpected exits, or opportunities that require a shift in leadership or ownership. A good plan aligns personal goals with business continuity, so the business remains viable and valuable long term. It gives certainty to your team and anyone who relies on the business. Risk management: Protecting what you have built As businesses grow, so do their risks. A quick review of your key contracts, supplier agreements, and customer terms can help ensure they still reflect how your business operates. It is also worth checking that your insurance and legal obligations align with your current activities. Small gaps can become big issues if left unnoticed. If your business handles customer data, it may also be worth checking that your privacy practices and policies still meet current requirements. People and employment settings Your people are often your biggest asset. Making sure employment agreements, policies, and health and safety settings are up to date helps protect both your team and your business. If you are planning to grow your workforce this year, it is a good time to check that your employment foundations are fit for purpose. Intellectual property and brand protection If your business has developed new products, branding, or processes, it may be worth checking that your intellectual property is protected. Trade marks and other IP steps can help safeguard the value you are creating, especially if you are expanding or entering new markets. Commercial leases and premises If you lease your premises, reviewing your lease terms can help you plan for renewals, rent reviews, or upcoming obligations. Leases often contain time‑sensitive requirements that can affect your flexibility later. Financing and banking arrangements If your business has lending or banking arrangements, it can be helpful to check that your obligations still align with your current structure and plans. Growth, restructuring, or new investments can all affect what your lender expects from you. Contract maintenance: Keeping things current Contracts age quickly. Reviewing your key agreements to ensure they still reflect pricing, responsibilities, and service levels can prevent misunderstandings later. If your business has grown or changed, your templates may need a refresh too. Common signs it is time for a legal review Recent or upcoming business growth or restructuring. New shareholders, partners, or investors. Increased complexity, risk, or asset value. Plans to exit, sell, or transition in the next few years. Many local businesses in Hawke’s Bay have grown quickly over the past few years, and a quick legal check‑in can help ensure your foundations keep pace. A simple game plan for the year ahead A legal game plan does not need to be complicated. Often it starts with a short conversation to understand your goals and identify the areas that matter most. From there, you can prioritise what needs attention now and what can wait. Early review helps you avoid surprises, reduce risk, and move forward with confidence. It can also help to make sure key people in your business understand any updates, so everyone is working from the same page. Let’s set your business up well for 2026 If you want to start the year with clarity and a strong foundation, our team is here to help. You do not need to have everything figured out. A quick conversation now can make a real difference later. We’re here to help you move forward with confidence, backed by advice you can trust.

Choosing the right legal structure for your business isn’t just a box to tick, it’s a strategic decision that can shape your growth, manage your risk, and support long-term succession. Whether you're just starting out or reassessing your current setup, understanding the key differences between sole traders, partnerships, companies, and trusts can help you make informed decisions that align with your goals. Sole Traders: simple, but limited Operating as a sole trader is the simplest business structure. It’s easy to set up, with minimal compliance requirements, and gives the owner full control over decision-making. However, this simplicity comes with limitations. Sole traders are personally liable for all business debts and obligations, which can expose personal assets to risk. Growth can also be constrained, as the structure doesn’t easily accommodate investment or succession planning. For small scale operations or early stage ventures, sole trading may be a practical starting point, but it’s important to reassess as the business evolves. Partnerships: shared control, shared risk Partnerships involve two or more people working together in business. They offer flexibility and shared responsibility and can be a good fit for professional practices or family-run enterprises. However, like sole traders, partners are personally liable for business debts, unless the partnership is structured as a limited partnership. A limited partnership is a business structure where general partners manage the business and are fully liable, while limited partners invest but have liability only up to their contribution. Clear governance is essential. A well-drafted partnership agreement should outline roles, decision-making processes, profit sharing, dispute resolution, and exit strategies. Without this, misunderstandings can quickly escalate and impact the business. Companies: structure for scale A company is a separate legal entity, which means it can own assets, enter contracts, and incur liabilities independently of its shareholders. This structure offers limited liability, making it a popular choice for businesses looking to grow, attract investment, or manage risk. Companies are subject to governance obligations under the Companies Act 1993, including maintaining accurate records, filing annual returns, and ensuring directors act in good faith and in the best interests of the company. Shareholder agreements and constitution documents play a key role in setting expectations and protecting interests. For many businesses, incorporating as a company provides the structure and credibility needed to enable growth while also supporting succession planning through share transfers or director appointments. Trusts: protecting assets and planning ahead Trusts are often used to hold business assets, particularly in family-owned enterprises. A trust separates legal ownership from beneficial ownership, which can help protect assets from business risk and support long-term succession. Trusts require careful governance. Trustees must act in accordance with the trust deed and in the best interests of beneficiaries. Regular reviews, clear documentation, and professional advice are essential to ensure the trust remains fit for purpose and compliant with legal obligations. While not suitable for every business, trusts can be a powerful tool for asset protection, estate planning, and intergenerational succession, especially when used alongside other structures. Structuring for success The right structure depends on your business goals, risk profile, and future plans. It’s not just about compliance, it’s about clarity, control, and confidence. Smart structuring can: Limit personal liability; support investment and growth; clarify governance and decision-making; enable succession and continuity; and protect assets and manage tax obligations.  At Willis Legal, we work closely with business owners to ensure their structure supports both day-to-day operations and long-term strategy. Whether you're starting fresh, expanding, or planning for the next generation, we’re here to help you get it right.

We’re pleased to shine a light on Emma Roberts, a Partner in our Commercial team. Emma brings a wealth of experience in business and commercial law, with particular expertise in the sale and purchase of businesses, shareholder arrangements, commercial financing, and asset protection. Emma has advised on a wide range of transactions, including the sale of a $34 million company and a $18 million company in the past year. She also worked closely with an iwi collective on a proposed company purchase, preparing and presenting a comprehensive legal due diligence report. Emma also advises a number of well-known local businesses on their ongoing commercial matters, providing practical, strategic advice that supports long-term growth. Her approach is grounded in clarity and confidence. Emma believes in making informed advice and offering clients clear guidance on the best course of action, drawing on her extensive experience to ensure legal solutions are both robust and realistic. Clients value her ability to simplify complex issues and provide advice that is both practical and reassuring. One particularly memorable transaction saw Emma finalising a large-scale deal while on holiday in Bali, after a delayed completion date meant the matter couldn’t be delegated. Despite the challenge, she ensured the transaction was completed successfully, demonstrating her commitment to client outcomes (and was grateful for Willis Legal’s investment in cloud-based technology, meaning she could work from Bali). Emma is passionate about helping businesses set themselves up for success from the outset. She regularly advises on shareholders’ agreements, lease agreements, and other foundational documentation, areas where early attention can prevent costly complications later. Her work helps clients avoid common pitfalls and build strong legal frameworks that support future growth. Looking ahead, Emma sees exciting developments in the commercial space, particularly with the rise of AI and the shift toward remote and digital service delivery. She encourages businesses to stay agile and embrace these changes to remain competitive. Emma enjoys getting to know each business she works with, understanding how they operate and helping to put in place the right structures to support their goals. Her thoughtful, strategic approach makes her a trusted advisor to many. Emma has been with Willis Legal since she moved from Auckland back to Hawke’s Bay in 2012, and has been a partner since 2020. She is an integral part of our Willis Legal team and plays a key role in supporting the success of our clients.

A Shareholder Agreement Helps Everyone Stay on the Same Page

When someone passes away, their will is meant to provide clear instructions about how their estate should be managed and distributed. For most families, it offers a sense of direction during a time of grief. But sometimes, questions arise, and a will may be contested. Contesting a will isn’t common, but when it does happen, it can be emotionally and legally complex. At Willis Legal, we’re here to help you understand what’s involved, and to support you through the process with care, clarity, and professionalism. Why might a will be contested? A will can only be challenged on specific legal grounds. Examples include: Family Protection Act claims - where close family members feel they haven’t been properly provided for in the will. Property (Relationships) Act claims - where a surviving partner may be entitled to a share of relationship property. Concerns about validity - for example, if the will wasn’t signed or witnessed correctly, or if the person lacked mental capacity when they made it. Undue influence - where someone may have unfairly pressured the will-maker. It’s important to note that not everyone can contest a will. The law limits this right to certain people, usually spouses, children, or dependents. If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible to make a claim, seeking early legal advice is key. What does the process involve? If someone believes they have grounds to contest a will, the process typically includes: Obtaining a copy of the will and the assets and liabilities of the estate. Negotiation and mediation - many disputes are resolved through negotiation or mediation, without the need for a full court hearing. Filing a claim in court - this must be done within a set timeframe, usually within 6-12 months of probate being granted. Court involvement - the High Court or Family Court will consider the claim and review supporting evidence, which may include medical records, witness statements, or details of family circumstances. Court decision - if no agreement is reached, the Court will make a decision about whether the will should be changed or upheld. Every case is different, and the Court will look closely at the individual circumstances. The law aims to balance the wishes of the person who made the will with fairness to those left behind. Things to keep in mind Contesting a will can be stressful, and it may affect family relationships. Timeframes are strict, and the process can be emotionally charged. It is important to seek legal advice early - not just to understand your rights and the process involved, but to help you navigate the situation with clarity and confidence. At Willis Legal, we take a people-first approach. We understand that behind every legal issue is a family, a story, and a need for support. Whether you’re considering a claim or responding to one, we’ll walk alongside you: explaining your options, helping you weigh the risks, and working toward a resolution that respects both the law and the people involved. How we can help Our team has extensive experience in estate matters, including contested wills. We’ll listen carefully, explain things in plain language, and tailor our advice to your situation. We’re here to help you move forward constructively, with empathy, expertise, and a focus on what matters most. If you have questions about a will or estate, or you’re unsure where to start, get in touch with us. We’re here to help.

In the fast-moving and constantly evolving legal landscape, depth of legal knowledge and long-standing experience remain cornerstones of exceptional service. At Willis Legal, we believe that longevity - both within individual careers and across the life of a firm - is not just an advantage but a profound asset that distinguishes meaningful legal practice from mere process. With over 135 years of history, Willis Legal has grown from its roots in Napier to become a trusted legal partner across Hawke’s Bay. Founded in the late 1800s, the firm has continued to grow and evolve throughout its life, culminating in the multi-branch, modern law practice Willis Legal is today. This growth reflects not just strategic expansion, but a deep commitment to serving our community with integrity and care. That legacy is also personal. Lawrie Willis , a longstanding partner, represents the third generation of his family to practise law at the firm. Mark Goodson , another senior (but extremely young-looking) partner, continues the legacy of his late father, a former partner, Brian. Other family ties, including Kevin Callinicos , previously a partner but now a consultant, and his daughter, Vicky and son, John (both solicitors) have helped shape the firm’s culture of continuity and trust. Over the years, Willis Legal has also produced three High Court Judges (Justice Woodhouse, Justice Gallen, and Justice Chisholm) and a District Court Judge (Judge Neal), underscoring the calibre of legal minds nurtured within our walls. Legal knowledge gained through years of practice is more than just technical proficiency. It’s the accumulated wisdom of navigating ambiguity, resolving complex disputes, and anticipating challenges before they arise. Experienced lawyers bring insight that no textbook or single case can teach. They’ve seen the ripple effects of legislative changes, the ways precedent shifts, and how context shapes outcomes. This insight allows them to offer strategic clarity in moments when the stakes are high, and the path unclear.Whether we’re advising on property transactions, family matters, or complex commercial negotiations, we draw on long-standing knowledge to craft solutions that are practical and enduring. Experience also builds trust. Clients often come to us in moments of vulnerability - seeking support through family breakdowns, financial uncertainty, or legal conflicts. Knowing that their lawyer has walked this path with many before them instils confidence. It reassures them that the advice they receive is grounded in more than theory; it’s been tested, refined, and proven. In a field where outcomes can profoundly affect lives, trust in your legal advisor is indispensable. As longstanding partner Lawrence Willis puts it: “Legal knowledge is important, but it’s the experience behind it that gives it weight. Clients don’t just want answers - they want assurance that those answers come from someone who’s seen the terrain before and knows how to guide them through it.” That ethos extends to our investment in the future. Willis Legal is proud to support young lawyers and legal executives, regularly hiring graduates and summer clerks, and fostering a culture of mentorship. Seasoned lawyers become anchors for younger colleagues, passing down knowledge that helps maintain high standards across generations. Even as we explore emerging technologies, and how we can best use them for our clients (including AI and digital tools), our core values of integrity, clarity, and client focus remain intact. In essence, the depth of legal knowledge and long-standing experience are what turn legal representation into legal guidance. At Willis Legal, we honour this legacy - drawing on years of practice not just to resolve issues, but to educate, empower, and protect our clients with precision and heart.

At Willis Legal, longevity isn’t just measured in years - it’s felt in relationships, remembered in shared milestones, and seen in the steady rhythm of daily practice. Few reflect that spirit more than Lawrence (Lawrie) Willis and Janine Blockley , whose decades of service are woven into the fabric of the firm itself. Lawrence Willis Known to many as Lawrie, he is a cornerstone of the Hawke’s Bay legal community - and part of a three-generation legacy at Willis Legal. His family’s long-standing connection to the firm runs deep, reinforcing a personal commitment to its values, evolution, and enduring presence in the region. Lawrie obtained his Bachelor of Laws from Victoria University before joining the family firm then known as Willis Toomey Robinson in 1983. Since becoming a partner in 1989, he has guided the firm through structural and strategic change (the use of personal computers, online property registration and much more), leading Willis Toomey Robinson through mergers with local Hawke’s Bay firms, including Scannell Hardy & Co, Donkin Lloyd (Napier Law), and Taradale Law, and now serving as both partner and owner at Willis Legal. Over the years, he’s seen the pace of legal practice shift dramatically, especially in how we communicate. From fax machines to email, mobile phones, and digital platforms, each advancement has brought greater speed, and with it, greater pressure. Despite all that change, Lawrie says the highlight of his time at Willis Legal has always been the people, both the team and the clients. It’s the relationships, the shared history, and the trust built over time that continue to make the work meaningful. “Legal knowledge gets you to the issue - but it’s experience that guides you through it. Clients want more than technical answers; they want assurance those answers come from someone who’s seen the terrain, understands its patterns, and knows how to lead with confidence and care. We learn from our experiences, good and bad and bring them to play in every decision we make.” Lawrie’s breadth of legal knowledge from his years of practice sees him mentoring younger lawyers on how to navigate practice and the changing legal world, or offering seasoned guidance, and often a shared history, to clients. Janine Blockley Janine joined the firm in 1981 at just sixteen, beginning as an office junior in the accounts department - back when receipts were handwritten in carbon books and the phones lit up like a switchboard. Over the next 44 years, she held roles across departments, from search and registration to reception, and eventually settled into secretarial support. Her story tracks not just the firm’s history - Robinson Toomey & Partners > Willis Toomey Robinson > Willis Legal - but the pace of legal practice itself: from mini cassette tapes to modern cloud-based systems. Through it all, Janine remained constant, supporting teams, remembering clients and family histories, and quietly keeping the engine of the firm humming. “The thing that keeps me here is the staff - they’ve always felt like family. I’m now the longest-standing member and going for the record… if AI doesn’t take my job first!” Together, Lawrie and Janine represent two facets of enduring excellence: one leads with legal depth and strategic foresight, the other sustains culture, continuity, and client connection. In an industry where change is constant, they prove that relevance doesn’t just come from reinvention - it grows from reliability, care, and long-held trust. At Willis Legal, we’re proud to honour their legacy - and the values it continues to inspire.

Legal issues can be overwhelming - especially when you’re unsure how to afford the help you need. That’s where Legal Aid comes in. It’s a government-funded programme that helps people access legal advice and representation when they can’t afford it on their own. At its heart, Legal Aid is about fairness: ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to be heard and supported, no matter their financial circumstances. What is Legal Aid? Legal Aid is a grant from the government to assist people who would not otherwise be able to afford legal services pay for a lawyer. Legal Aid is not available for every legal issue - for example, it generally doesn’t cover wills, conveyancing, or commercial disputes - but it can be a vital support for those dealing with serious or stressful situations. At Willis Legal we provide Legal Aid for certain family and civil matters. Who can get Legal Aid? Legal Aid is means-tested, which means your income and assets will be assessed to determine whether you qualify. The thresholds vary depending on your circumstances - for example, whether you have dependents or a partner. Even if you earn above the threshold, you may still be eligible for partial Legal Aid, or be asked to repay some of the costs over time, depending on your situation. As of July 2025, a single person with no dependents may qualify if they earn under $28,984 per year, while someone with a partner and two children may qualify if their household income is under $73,608. How do you apply? For family matters, we can help you complete the application. You’ll need to provide: proof of income (eg payslips or benefit statements); details of your assets (eg savings, property, vehicles); and information about your living situation and dependents. Common misconceptions There are a few misunderstandings about Legal Aid that are worth clearing up: It’s not just for criminal cases. Many people don’t realise Legal Aid is available for a wide range of family and civil law matters. It doesn’t mean “free lawyer” in every case. Depending on your financial situation, you may need to repay some or all of your Legal Aid over time. Legal debt may be secured against any property, taken from any proceeds of your case, or you may be required to make weekly repayments, depending on your situation. You can choose your lawyer. If a lawyer is approved to take on Legal Aid work, and agrees to act for you, you can ask for them specifically. You must update your details. If your income or assets change, you need to let Legal Aid Services know - otherwise, your eligibility could be affected. For more information about how Legal Aid works, visit the Ministry of Justice website .