Robert Makgill

About Robert

What did you study and where?

Batchelor of Laws, The University of Waikato; Master of Laws in Environmental Law with First Class Honours, The University of Auckland; and Doctor of Law, Ghent University, Belgium.

Why did you decide to study law?

I studied law because I was interested in social justice and jurisprudence.

Where do you currently work and what kinds of work do you do?

I am Barrister, which means I am self-employed. I have home based Chambers in Ponsonby and Piha. I broadly practice in the fields of environmental, public, property and international law.

What do you like about your work?

I enjoy the intellectual challenge of my field of practice and the opportunity it provides to interact with a range of experts from other disciplines. I am, similarly, grateful for the opportunities it’s provides to engage with lawyers and experts internationally.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I like to surf. It keeps me fit and allows me to unwind. Other things I enjoy include gardening, exercise, cinema, the arts, and travelling (esp. France and Belgium, as this afford an opportunities to improve my French, which is an ongoing work).

What advice would you give to those considering studies in law?

Outside the core topics, study topics that interest you. Legal practice is demanding. While it is important to experiment in with different fields of law, success (whatever that might be for you) usually follows pursuit of something you are genuinely interested in. Its ok to try something else if you think your first choice was a mistake. And, if you want variety and hands on experience sooner rather than later, look to the town and rural practices.