Steph Gifford – Aspiring Law Director
Q: What inspired you to pursue law, and what drew you to your areas of expertise?
A: For those who remember LA Law’s Susan Dey – she was my early inspiration! In truth, though, law was always the plan. I never considered anything else. Over the years, I’ve dabbled in a few different areas, but general practice keeps things interesting. I love being a “one-stop shop” for my clients – helping everyday people through life’s milestones.
Q: Can you share an example of when your guidance made a difference for a client or family?
A: What comes to mind is advocating for one partner in a separation. It’s such a stressful time, and people often arrive feeling overwhelmed. I take great satisfaction in reassuring them, giving them a roadmap, and helping them move forward with confidence.
Q: You’re also a mum to two young boys. How does that shape your approach to work and leadership?
A: Let’s just say law is the easier of my two jobs! Raising two spirited and very energetic boys has definitely sharpened my negotiation skills. It’s a juggle – often organised chaos – but it’s made me an expert multitasker.
Q: What gives you the most satisfaction in your client work?
A: Seeing stress turn into calm. Many clients start out anxious and unsure, but by the end they feel supported and clear about the path ahead. That transformation is incredibly rewarding.
Q: How would you describe your leadership and legal style?
A: I’ve always believed in treating people the way you’d like to be treated – with respect, fairness, and a bit of humour. My legal style is pragmatic and down-to-earth; I like to keep things simple and transparent for clients.
Q: Outside work, how do you like to unwind?
A: I’m a bit of a foodie and love nothing more than diving into a new Dish magazine and planning what to cook next.
Q: And finally, what’s next for you?
A: Professionally, I’m passionate about addressing the rise in estate claims and elder abuse – advocacy in that area really matters to me. I’m also excited to keep developing in relationship property law. Personally, I’d love to get more involved in my boys’ school and give back to the community.
Graeme Randle – Trusts & Life Planning Specialist
Q: What inspired you to start a law degree at 61?
A: Military law lit the spark during my Territorial Army days, and in business I was always dealing with legal issues. With my boss’s support, I started at UC Law in 2005 while working full-time. It was a long road, but when I was admitted to the bar in 2016, I became the company’s first in-house lawyer in 90 years. I loved every step.
Q: What’s the biggest lesson you bring from your corporate career into your client work?
A: Listen first. Don’t jump to conclusions until you’ve got all the facts.
Q: Can you give an example of how you’ve helped make things easier for a client?
A: Trust decisions are never one-size-fits-all. For some, winding up made sense; for others, keeping it running was better. I present the options, and clients decide what feels right for them.
Q: Outside of work, you act and fly planes – any crossover with law?
A: Absolutely. Flying and performing both demand discipline, precision, and no room for “she’ll be right”. The same applies in law.
Q: What’s your go-to walk or vineyard?
A: I love the Lake Wanaka track from Edgewater to Waterfall Creek. And Pegasus Bay Winery is always a favourite.
Q: What gives you the most satisfaction in your work?
A: Helping clients make clear, confident decisions – and explaining things in plain English so they feel in control.
Q: And finally, what’s next?
A: At nearly 71, I’m thinking about retirement, but I’d love to do more client presentations on trusts. There are still plenty of myths to bust, and I enjoy sharing knowledge.
