Since 1970 James Donovan Solicitors has worked with the Howick, Botany, Beachlands and surrounding communities to grow businesses and help families prosper. James, our Founder, originally located to Howick with his wife, Marie (subsequently the Principal of Botany Downs Primary) because of her family connections here. His first office was in lower Picton Street, the firm later moved to its current location - the salubrious heights of upper Picton Street. 

An Honorary Life Member of the local Rotary, Honorary Solicitor to St Johns, and valued legal advisor to many in the Howick community, James has now transitioned into a Founder role; his daughter Michelle – who has worked as a Solicitor in the practice since 2016 – still proudly flies the Donovan flag within the firm. 

Michelle builds on the the firm’s existing strengths in elder law, conveyencing, property law, trusts, and estates by bringing expertise in family law, particularly relationship property. Michelle has overseen the rejuvenation of the offices, completing a major renovation in late 2023. “We’re a multi-generational law firm”, says Michelle, “We have worked with the grandparents and parents of many of our clients, helping them structure their affairs through all stages of life.”

 As Howick and the wider area has evolved, so has the practice. Andrew Hou (fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese) has joined as a Solictor working in conveyancing, immigration, employment, and commercial law.  Andrew’s legal skills are complemented by his 10 years of accountancy experience as a CPA. Our solicitors are ably supported by our registered Senior Legal Executive, Vanessa Martin.

Advice on structuring your business and family assets is an enduring strength of the practice - creating trusts that can flex with changes in your life, and which minimise risk. Advising older clients and their families is another area of expertise – ensuring families are well-protected and prepared for life’s changes.

For fifty years, James Donovan Solicitors have been serving the legal needs of the wider Howick and Eastern Bays community and are well positioned and continue to help their communities grow and flourish. After four decades of dedicated service to the community, James Donovan is hanging up his hat and retiring. His daughter, Michelle Donovan has commenced practice as the Director of Donovan Law Ltd which is the successor to the old firm.

The new firm will continue to be based at the existing premises at 22 Picton Street, Howick.  You can continue to contact us on 09 534 7169 and at our old email info@donovanlaw.co.nz.‍ ‍