We work with Toitū Envirocare to analyse and record our carbon emissions, and secure certification related to our efforts to reduce our emissions and inform the way we deliver our services in an ethical and sustainable way.
In 2024 we entered into a multi-year commitment with Trees that Count to fund the planting of thousands of native trees throughout Aotearoa New Zealand for the next 5 years.
We partner with wonderful local charities, including Breakfast Club in Auckland which helps primary school children from socio-economically deprived areas, and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra in support of its Hauora Wellbeing outreach programme (more here).
The Firm attaches great importance to our impact on all our communities, outside of client matters. We work to ensure that we foster a workplace culture of inclusion.
We have long been identified as a firm which provides clear pathways of progression for our female lawyers. By way of example, 12 of our 27 Partners are women (one of the highest percentages of female Partners in Aotearoa New Zealand) and 50% of our Board are women.
Through our DE&I Committee we have championed initiatives and made recommendations to the Executive, including working on our Rainbow Tick certification, celebrating local and international Pride weeks, taking part in national campaigns such as Pink Shirt Day and Mental Health Awareness Week, and honouring culturally important events such as Waitangi Day, Matariki and Māori language week.
We are a member of Diversity Works.
At Wynn Williams, we’re committed to providing a diverse range of education and training opportunities designed to support you at every stage of your legal career. Whether you’re just starting as a summer clerk or advancing as a partner, our focus is ensuring continuous learning, development, and growth.
Starting Your Journey
Training begins with a comprehensive induction program designed to help you transition into the firm’s culture and life as a full-time lawyer. For summer clerks and graduates, this includes a two-day induction that introduces you to our systems, processes, and key team members. You are also paired with a “buddy” who acts as your go-to for any of those “silly” questions and guides you through your early experiences.
For law graduates, we provide comprehensive support through the Professional Legal Studies Course (Profs). This essential training program bridges the gap between academic study and professional practice, equipping you with crucial skills such as advocacy, client interviewing, and courtroom procedures. Completing Profs is a mandatory step to gaining admission as a barrister and solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand. At Wynn Williams, we not only cover the cost of your course but also work with you to ensure your schedule accommodates the necessary study and in-person classes, setting you up for success in this critical phase of your career.
On-the-Job Learning
Hands-on learning is at the heart of our approach. Your buddy, supervising partner, and team will provide guidance as you navigate tasks and challenges, ensuring you gain practical skills and insights. We also encourage you to join client meetings, offering opportunities to understand varying client needs, develop the ability to explain complex legal concepts to different audiences, and experience the human side of law.
Continuous Growth
Learning never stops. Our internal training programs are open to everyone, from summer clerks to seasoned lawyers, ensuring you have everything you need to complete your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours and meet NZLS requirements. Our internal Thursday Trainings offer opportunities to dive into the latest legal developments with sessions led by our in-house experts. We also help you stay on track with regular, constructive feedback through informal discussions and structured Personal Development Plans.
A Career-Long Commitment
We’re here to support your growth every step of the way. As your career progresses, you’ll have opportunities to stretch your abilities, explore new areas of law, and adapt to changes in the legal landscape. Even at the highest levels, such as Associate or Partner, we encourage continuous learning, ensuring you remain at the forefront of the profession.
At Wynn Williams, we believe in more than just training—we want to provide a platform for you to grow, evolve, and succeed. With our unwavering focus on fostering talent, supporting your Profs journey, and providing innovative learning opportunities, we’re here to help you achieve your full potential.
