About us
Why IPLS?
We’re proud to be New Zealand born and raised, we’re the original organisation formed to teach law graduates the practical legal skills they need to perform at a professional level. We were the first to develop a skills-based approach alongside the legal industry in Aotearoa.
If you’re asking yourself why IPLS, why not?
Mission
Our mission is to prepare law graduates to enter practice competent, resilient and ready to contribute to the wider profession so that they can add value to the lives of the public of Aotearoa.
Values
As a New Zealand organisation, we embrace diversity and Te Ao Māori. We have adopted a set of Māori principles that are at the heart of our culture. They represent what we stand for and how we serve our rangatahi.
Whanaungatanga
A sense of belonging through shared experiences.
We welcome everyone into the IPLS whānau, acknowledging and supporting diversity.
Manaakitanga
Extending aroha and demonstrating kindness, generosity and support.
We are available when needed, provide regular feedback and employ a coaching approach that complements our legal expertise.
Mōhiotanga
Sharing knowledge.
We thrive on assisting law graduates to develop practical, legal skills that will that will give them a head start in the workplace.
Māramatanga
Understanding.
Our unique skills-based approach teaches information that is up-to-date, relevant and directly applicable to the workplace.
Tuākana / Tēina
Current leaders, future leaders.
We understand that knowledge is taonga to be passed from one generation to the next. IPLS instructors have a strong desire to give back to the profession and they take seriously the role they play in teaching and supporting the future lawyers of Aotearoa.
Kaitiakitanga
Guardians.
IPLS is committed to the rule of law and Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles. We value the opportunity to help nurture future lawyers as they progress through university (via our sponsorship and events programme), complete Profs and ultimately transition into the workplace.
NZQA 2021 Feedback
“High performance is achieved through quality teaching and learning processes targeted and regularly reviewed to effectively match needs and ensure law graduates develop the practical skills and knowledge required for legal practice. IPLS is focused on delivering training that inspires learning and supports each student to achieve the required practical skills, knowledge and competencies needed for legal practice.”
The Professional Legal Studies Course is of high value to the legal profession. Its content and delivery are tailored to effectively match the needs of law graduates and employer law firms.
Highly effective processes include high-calibre instructors, excellent formative learning, high levels of engagement and interaction to support learning, and individualised additional tuition and support. These processes support almost 100 per cent course completions and valued outcomes. Student wellbeing is a key focus.
Relevant and consistent delivery is achieved through authentic moderation practice and instructor guidance, training and development.
Quality self-assessment information is used insightfully to enhance academic processes and the learning experience. Core data sources are closely analysed on an ongoing basis to review performance and drive improvement.’
Source: 2021 NZQA External Evaluation and Review report.
Our instructors
All IPLS instructors are legally qualified and experienced. They incorporate their hands-on knowledge, as well as the latest legal developments, into their mentoring and stay by your side throughout the course, providing coaching and support at every stage.
Bernadette Wilson – National Director
LLB
Bernadette is based in the Auckland office and was appointed National Director in 2005. She is committed to ensuring IPLS trainees take the highest standards of professionalism with them into the workplace. Prior to joining IPLS, Bernadette worked for Bell Gully in Auckland in its commercial property team as well as for a smaller firm in general practice focusing on company, commercial and property law.
Dr Stephanie Mead
BA, LLB(Hons), LLM(Hons) & PhD(Law)
Dr. Stephanie Mead has a PhD in Law from the University of Auckland. She was admitted to the bar in 2004 and specialises in environmental health law, resource management, and local government law as a Barrister. Stephanie is also a certified Independent Hearings Commissioner for various councils, and an accredited Mediator in New Zealand and Australia with experience in dispute resolution.
Stephanie joined IPLS in 2013 and is passionate about mentoring and guiding trainees to develop confidence in practical skills for their legal careers.
Michael Gardam
LLB(Hons)
Michael Gardam completed his law degree at the University of Auckland, and he was admitted to the bar in 1993. He is of European and Māori descent - Ngāti hau (hapu), Ngapuhi (iwi). With his experience as a mediator for Family Dispute Resolution, Michael brings a unique perspective to the training environment at IPLS.
He has worked in both private practice and for the government as a Police Legal Adviser. As a presenter and organiser, he has worked with the NZLS CLE, and he has been involved in the NZLS CLE Duty Solicitor Training Programme. Michael is also a former Youth Advocate in the Northland region and was the Convenor of the NZLS Youth Justice Committee.
Michael enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience training the next generation of new lawyers.
Janine Bonifant
BA, LLB
Janine Bonifant has over 30 years of experience in criminal law, completing around 500 jury trials. In addition to her criminal law expertise, she has also practiced in general litigation, including family and employment law. As a youth advocate, she brings a unique perspective to the IPLS ecosystem since 2015.
Janine sits on the faculty for the NZLS Litigation Skills course and the NZLS Advanced Litigation Skills course and she has written two practical guides on criminal law practice. Through webinars and other presentations, she has shared her knowledge and expertise with aspiring and practicing lawyers alike.
Janine enjoys helping new lawyers enter the profession and learn advocacy techniques to improve their skills in court.
Michelle Hall Collins
BA(English), LLB
Michelle Hall Collins has 15 years of experience in employment and health and safety law. She gained her law degree from the University of Canterbury and was admitted to the bar in 1993. Michelle has worked for a variety of organisations, including a boutique employment law firm in Auckland, the Department of Labour and the London Borough of Southwark, providing advice and conducting prosecutions relating to breaches of public welfare-regulatory laws.
Michelle enjoys working with trainees to help them develop their skills in writing, analysis, and advocacy, helping them to excel in their legal careers.
Justin Kleinbaum
LLB, BA
Justin Kleinbaum has a keen interest in governmental and regulatory dispute resolution. He graduated from the University of Auckland in 2006 and has since worked for government departments and regulatory bodies in a variety of areas, including general litigation, criminal and family law, insolvency, tax, and professional discipline.
Justin is also fluent in Dutch, French, Spanish, and Portuguese, adding to his unique perspective when working with trainees. He joined IPLS to provide guidance and support to trainees, helping them navigate the challenge of stepping into legal practice.
Linda Hughes
BA, LLB
Linda completed her BA/LLB at Otago University and was admitted to the bar in 1985. Linda commenced work as a solicitor with the Housing Corporation of New Zealand in Hamilton later transferring to the Public Trust Office and then practiced as a sole practitioner until 2016. Linda’s areas of practice include Wills, Estates, Trusts, and Property (Commercial, Residential, and Rural). Linda was a tutor of legal executive students in Estate Law and Practice and Property Law at WINTEC from 2005 – 2014 and tutored casually for Interviewing and Negotiation Workshops at the University of Waikato from 2014 – 2016.
Linda is an experienced IPLS Instructor joining IPLS in 2007.
Eric Yu
LLB/BA
Eric Yu has been practicing law since 2015, beginning his career in general practice with a focus on employment and criminal litigation. He recently moved into sole practice, specialising in criminal defence, particularly in matters related to the Land Transport Act.
In addition to his legal practice, Eric assists in the training of duty lawyers through the NZLS Duty Lawyer Course. He is also a member of Walker Street Chambers, in Christchurch.
Eric joined IPLS in early 2024, where he is dedicated to helping trainees develop the skills they need for legal practice, guiding them to confidence with the material.
Brigette Riddle
LLB
Brigette completed her LLB at the University of Canterbury and was admitted to the bar in 2010. Brigette spent several years working for Community Law Canterbury where she was involved in a range of legal issues including employment, family, tenancy, welfare and insurance following the Canterbury Earthquakes. Following this she moved on to work for the Insolvency and Trustee Service as part of MBIE.
Brigette took some time away from the profession in 2018 and has come back to share her knowledge with the IPLS students as of January 2025. Brigette enjoys working with trainees and seeing them progress through the course and develop their skills.
Brigette has conversational Te Reo Māori in addition to speaking English.
Cathy Fisher
BA/LLB (Hons)
Cathy graduated with BA/LLB(Hons) from the University of Auckland in 1992 and was admitted to the bar in 1993. She has spent her career working at Fortune Manning Lawyers where she has been a partner since 2001. Cathy specialises in commercial litigation, relationship property and employment law.
Cathy joined IPLS as an external moderator in 2012 and began working part-time as an instructor in 2025. Cathy started teaching at IPLS because she enjoyed the mentoring side of being a partner in a law firm and has always found helping others grow in their careers particularly rewarding.
Paula Warren
LLB
Paula joined IPLS in 2001 while practising as a senior lawyer at Minter Ellison in Auckland. Admitted in 1988, she has significant experience across a wide range of areas including commercial litigation, conveyancing, criminal and family law as well as estate planning. Paula enjoys teaching in both the online learning environment and the onsite blocks and particularly enjoys the opportunity to contribute in a practical sense to law graduates’ continuing education.
Rebecca Chisholm
LLB
Rebecca Chisholm has a background in litigation, particularly civil and family law, and a particular interest in alternative dispute resolution. She gained her law degree from the University of Otago and was admitted to the bar in 2004.
Rebecca joined IPLS in 2013 and has since enjoyed all aspects of mentoring, particularly working alongside trainees to build their confidence and help them learn challenging skills.
Dolly Brennan
LLB (Hons)
Dolly Brennan joined IPLS as an instructor in 2010. Dolly completed her LLB (Hons) at the University of Canterbury and was admitted to the bar in 1988. She was also admitted to the bar of England and Wales in 1995. Prior to joining IPLS, Dolly worked as a lawyer in corporate law firms in Wellington and London specialising in commercial litigation, and was also a law tutor at the University of Canterbury. In addition to her instructing role, Dolly is a Judicial Officer and holds a warrant in the Disputes Tribunal.
Dolly enjoys all aspects of instructing, but her true passion lies in helping trainees improve their drafting skills in a supportive environment, as they transition into practice.
Dr Helen Radersma
LLB, BSc, MSc(Hons), PhD(Chemistry)
Dr. Helen Radersma has a PhD in chemistry from the University of Auckland, gained her law degree from Victoria University and was admitted to the bar in 2015. As a registered and qualified Trans-Tasman patent attorney, Helen has extensive experience specialising in chemical and pharmaceutical patents, as well as a strong interest in intellectual property law.
Helen has acted for a range of clients, from individuals to start-ups to multinational organisations, and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of legal professionals.
Grant Wilkin
LLB, BA(Economics)
Grant Wilkin has a background in Civil and Estate disputes, Liquidation & Dispute Resolution and completed his studies at the University of Otago and University of Auckland. He was admitted to the bar in 1985. Grant has been an instructor with IPLS since 2008, leaving briefly before, and returning in 2021.
Grant takes pride in seeing the progress and improvement of trainees in the Trial Preparation & Advocacy seminar.
Lois Black
LLB(Hons), BA & MEdAdmin
Lois Black completed her degrees across the Universities of Otago, Queensland, and New England and was admitted to the bar in 2006. She worked as Research Counsel for the Judges at the North Shore and Waitakere District Courts before commencing private practice in civil litigation and dispute resolution. She is now a director of a law firm and a trust account supervisor, specialising in Elder Law, Trusts, Estates, and Relationship Property.
Lois particularly enjoys working with trainees to help them gain knowledge and confidence in practical legal skills.
Tom Powell
LLB
Tom is a Wellington-based barrister specialising in public and human rights law. He holds an LLB from Otago University and was admitted to the bar in 2010.
After starting his career as a family lawyer in South Auckland, Tom spent nearly a decade in the UK, acting for government departments in high-profile public interest litigation. He later led investigations at the Infected Blood Inquiry (UK) and, upon returning to New Zealand, served as Solicitor Assisting the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care.
Now a barrister at Bowen Chambers, Tom also holds Counsel Assisting roles and adjudicates ACC disputes.
He has been teaching at IPLS since 2024 and enjoys seeing trainees develop throughout the course.
Pip Hasselman
LLB
Pip Hasselman was admitted to the bar in 2010 and has worked predominantly in medium-sized firms as a general practitioner. In her most recent role at a firm in Queenstown, she specialised in property law and provided advice on relationship property, commercial law, trusts, and estates.
Pip joined IPLS in February 2024 and enjoys sharing practical tips with new lawyers, drawn from her years of experience in practice.
Pip has a basic understanding of Te Reo and aspires to further her knowledge.
Carlene Blucher
LLB
Carlene began her career in the stock and station industry, earning various commercial agriculture diplomas before attending Auckland University, where she graduated with an LLB in 2004. Admitted to the Bar in 2005, Carlene started her legal journey as a junior for a criminal barrister. She then specialised in family law within general practice firms in Kumeu and Warkworth, becoming a partner in 2012. In 2014, Carlene established her own firm, Blucher Law Limited, with a focus on family court matters.
Carlene joined IPLS in 2023 and is passionate about mentoring and guiding trainees, finding great satisfaction in helping others grow in their legal careers. Carlene is also a registered Independent Celebrant.
Carlene speaks a little French and Te Reo and lives in Kumeu, West Auckland, with her husband, two sons, three cats and a miniature dachshund puppy, who occasionally make appearances during virtual meetings.
Jamie-Lee Tuuta
LLB, LLM, BA (Psychology and Maori & Indigenous Studies)
Jamie-Lee joined as an instructor in July 2022, with an LLB and BA from the University of Canterbury and an LLM from Victoria University of Wellington. She was admitted to the bar in 2013 and has held positions at the Waitangi Tribunal, Community Law and as an in-house lawyer at Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu. Alongside this, she has also been a panel lawyer for the Royal Commission of Inquiry into abuse in care, a Kaitakawaenga at the Survivor Experience Service and is a past-president of Te Hunga Roia Maori o Aotearoa (Māori Law Society). She is currently a barrister at Atticus Chambers, specialising in family law matters and a member of the NZ Bar Association, Family Law Section.
Jamie-Lee finds it rewarding to engage with up and coming lawyers, teaching court craft and seeing trainees develop their skills so quickly during their time with IPLS.
She is an ongoing learner of Te Reo Maori.
IPLS and the New Zealand Council of Legal Education (NZCLE)
The Institute of Professional Legal Studies (IPLS) is a not-for-profit organisation, set up by the NZCLE to serve the legal profession in New Zealand.
They entrust IPLS to ensure lawyers entering the profession are equipped with the skills required to represent clients competently and ethically.
The NZCLE is a statutory body, set up under the Law Practitioners Act, to be responsible for pre-admission education and training for lawyers. You can read more about NZCLE at nzcle.org.nz.
Career opportunities at IPLS
Would you like to inspire the next generation of lawyers and become an instructor?
The role involves working alongside law graduates to teach them a comprehensive range of practical legal skills so that they can step into their career with confidence.
At IPLS we have a strong coaching philosophy and a function of the role involves working one-on-one with students. Join our close-knit, supportive team and play a pivotal role in the next generation of New Zealand’s lawyers.
Key experience required:
A minimum of seven years experience in the legal industry
Excellent communication and relationship skills
Value a flexible work environment
Able to respond to the needs of a diverse group of graduates.
If you’re interested in finding out more, please send your CV and cover letter to Bernadette Wilson, National Director.
If you are a student seeking employment please head to our job board for the latest listings.