Russell McVeagh Scholar Programme, our unique clerkship opportunity which combines mentoring, work experience and financial assistance – open to students in their third year of study
Staff: Over 350 people, with 50 partners
Contact: Matt Kendall is our Graduate Talent Advisor, who will be your main point of contact throughout your application. If you have any questions please contact him on matt.kendall@russellmcveagh.com – he’s always happy to help answer anything.
From day one, you will work with a supportive team who are invested in developing your career and you will be constantly learning and growing.
About the firm
Russell McVeagh is a leading New Zealand law firm, known as the go-to team for tackling complex legal problems. As a full-service commercial firm, we employ over 350 people across our Auckland, Wellington and South Island offices (Queenstown is opening soon!), and offer our clients a collaborative, seamless service. Supporting a wide range of clients, we draw on our expertise across the full spectrum of corporate advisory, banking and finance, litigation and dispute resolution, real estate and construction, tax, public law and environment planning law.
Working at the firm
At Russell McVeagh we are committed to excellence in everything we do. We are always raising the bar and challenging ourselves to be leaders in technical excellence. Our culture really sets us apart – it’s built around our value of respect and we are proud this has been recognised by winning the 2024 Employer of Choice at the NZ Law Awards. When you join our firm, no two days will be the same. The work across each of our legal teams is varied and exciting. From day one, you will work with a supportive team who are invested in developing your career and you will be constantly learning and growing.
Areas of expertise
Full-service commercial law firm.
Opportunities for Students
Russell McVeagh Scholar Programme, our unique clerkship opportunity which combines mentoring, work experience and financial assistance – open to students in their third year of study
2025/2026 Summer Clerkship – open to students in their penultimate year of study
2026 Law Clerkship – open to students in their last year of their law degree (planning to finish university studies by the end of 2025 and be available to start in early 2026)
Meet Jasleen Oberoi
Solicitor, Litigation
“From a career perspective, I appreciate the trust Russell McVeagh places in their staff.”
What kind of work have you been involved with at Russell McVeagh?
As a Solicitor in the General Litigation team, my work has been incredibly diverse. I’ve engaged in various dispute resolution processes, including adjudications, arbitrations, negotiations, and court proceedings, across numerous specialisations such as construction, property, consumer law, private client matters, class actions, IP, and more. My role in each case has varied, but as a junior on a file, the responsibility has involved drafting submissions, liaising directly with clients and opposing counsel, reviewing underlying documents, strategising next steps, and overall file management.
What do you enjoy about working at Russell McVeagh?
From a career perspective, I appreciate the trust Russell McVeagh places in their staff. I’ve already been the primary junior on several matters, while this has sometimes been daunting, it has accelerated my growth as a lawyer in a short time. I don’t know of any other firm that offers this level of responsibility so early. Socially, the firm invests heavily in fostering a strong culture through frequent social activities. I’ve made lifelong friends at Russell McVeagh, and I’m truly grateful for that!
What is unique about working at Russell McVeagh?
Their modern approach to the law stands out. From day one, it was clear that Russell McVeagh is committed to delivering excellent client advice. This means prioritising clear, pragmatic, and tangible advice over lengthy, jargon-filled memos. This modern approach also extends to the firm culture, which emphasises wellbeing, work/life balance, and inclusivity.
Meet Kieran O’Connor
Solicitor, Environment & Planning
“I honestly learn something every day.”
How did you choose your area of specialisation?
I found the Resource Management paper at University of Auckland very interesting. I think this area of the law will only become busier and more critical as time goes on. After being placed in the team as a summer clerk, I really enjoyed my time – it was great being able to learn directly from a leading team in this field.
What skills do you find most valuable in your current role?
I’ve found working different to studying. What is really helpful is good communication skills (especially in person with our team and clients), attention to detail, work ethic and overall proactiveness.
How does your firm support professional development and career growth?
There are plenty of opportunities within teams and the firm itself to upskill and develop. Each team has specific technical training, plus there are specific session on core skills like negotiating, delegating and presenting. Additionally, working alongside and learning from industry leaders on a daily basis is a great way to start a legal career. I honestly learn something every day.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career at your firm?
Research the team / area of law you want to work in and invest some time navigating the website. Definitely feel free to reach out on LinkedIn / email to set up a coffee and get a first-hand account of life at the firm. Nothing beats talking to someone who is in a team or area you’re interested in!