Legal Team
Our team at Holbrook Law embodies a strategic, dedicated, approachable, practical, and knowledgeable ethos, ensuring that each member brings comprehensive legal expertise and personalised guidance to every client we serve.

Dana Holbrook, BA JD
Director
I have practised law in New Zealand since 1997 and specialise in all areas of Family Law. I regularly appear in the Family Court and have appeared in the High Court on various matters.
More about Dana
I completed a course named Collaborative Practice held by the University of Technology, Sydney, Australia. Collaborative law uses a different approach to resolving disputes without involving litigation; the focus is on the parties being able to reach an agreeable solution to their particular issues. One of the many positive aspects of Collaborative Law is the parties make their own decisions rather than having a Judge make a decision, which either one or both parties disagree with.

Chris McBreen LLB, MBS
Senior Solicitor
I was admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor in 2004 and have been practising law for over two decades. Throughout my career, I have worked primarily with small firms on Auckland’s North Shore, where I have developed strong and lasting relationships with both clients and colleagues.
More about Chris
My legal practice is built on a client-focused approach. I take the time to listen carefully to each client’s circumstances and provide practical, clear and cost-effective advice tailored to their individual needs. Whether a client is navigating a difficult separation, dealing with the loss of a loved one, managing their property, or planning for their future, my goal is always to guide them through the process with professionalism, empathy and care.
My areas of practice include:
Relationship Property – Assisting clients with property division following the breakdown of a relationship, whether through separation, divorce, or dissolution of a civil union. I work to ensure fair and equitable outcomes while aiming to minimise conflict and cost.
Separation and Divorce – Advising clients through the emotional and legal complexities of ending a marriage or partnership, including parenting arrangements and asset distribution.
Wills – Helping clients create valid and effective wills that reflect their wishes and provide peace of mind for them and their loved ones.
Estates – Guiding executors and beneficiaries through the estate administration process, including probate applications, asset distribution and dispute resolution.
Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) – Advising on and preparing EPAs for both personal care and welfare, and property, to ensure clients’ interests are protected in the event they are no longer able to make decisions for themselves.
Conveyancing and Refinancing – Handling residential property transactions including buying, selling, and refinancing homes, with attention to detail and commitment to timely service.
Elder Law – Supporting clients and their families with legal issues such as estate planning, asset protection, and decision-making authority.

Jessica Thwaites LLB, BCOM
Senior Solicitor
Prior to joining Holbrook Law, I previously worked at a mid-sized full-service law firm in Auckland, where I practised in family law, traffic, and minor criminal matters for four years, both as a law clerk during my studies at Auckland University and then as a solicitor post-admission.
More about Jessica
Within specialising in family law, I can assist with care of children and guardianship disputes, family violence, matters involving Oranga Tamariki, estate matters, and relationship property, whether that be by way of Contracting Out Agreement for asset protection, or separation.
I regularly appear in various Family Courts across Auckland and have the skillset to represent clients through the Court process if necessary, or through mediation and negotiations. I accept both private and legal aid instructions and am a lead provider for legal aid services.
I respect that clients are experiencing one of the most stressful and challenging times in their lives, and I am committed to providing transparent advice to reach a pragmatic resolution.

Hayley McLeod LLB
Solicitor
I have been working in law firms on the North Shore since 2014, gaining experience in Conveyancing (including Residential Sale and Purchase, and Refinancing matters), Estate Planning (including Wills and Enduring Powers of Attorney), Estate Administration, Trusts, and Commercial matters while studying to obtain my law degree.
More about Hayley
Since joining Holbrook Law, I have also been working in Family Law, including matters related to family violence and the Care of children.
I like to approach all areas of practice with empathy and support for my clients. I understand that dealing with legal matters can feel overwhelming, so it is important to take the time to listen and explain information in plain language to minimise the stress as much as possible.

Raewyn Williams
Legal Secretary
I returned to live in New Zealand in late 2016, having lived in Australia with my family for 5 years prior. Since being back in New Zealand, I joined the team at Holbrook Law as receptionist/secretary.
More about Raewyn
I have over 10 years experience working in reception and support roles.
I am a mum of three girls and enjoy spending time with my family watching movies and exploring the outdoors.