Russell McVeagh is proud to congratulate partner Ed Crook on his appointment as a Judge of the High Court of New Zealand.
Ed's appointment marks a significant milestone in an exceptional legal career and reflects the respect he has earned from clients, peers and the wider legal profession. It is also a proud moment for Russell McVeagh, continuing the firm's long tradition of partners going on to serve at all levels of New Zealand's judiciary.
Ed joined Russell McVeagh as a solicitor in 1999 and became a partner in 2004. Over the following 22 years, he established himself as one of New Zealand's leading real estate lawyers, advising on many of the country's most significant property and development projects, including Commercial Bay and Highbrook.
Alongside his market-leading practice, Ed has made an outstanding contribution to the leadership and development of the firm. He has served as Partnership Chair, a member of the Board of Management, Co-Chair of the Ethics Committee, and Chair of the Real Estate & Construction Practice Group for more than a decade.
A respected mentor, trusted colleague and leader, Ed has helped shape the careers of countless lawyers and played a pivotal role in developing Russell McVeagh's Real Estate & Construction practice into New Zealand's leading team.
Reflecting on his time with the firm, Ed said,
"It has been a huge privilege to have been a Russell McVeagh partner for the last (almost) 22 years. There is so much about Russell McVeagh of which I am proud. The firm is made up of an incredible group of people, we continue to attract the best and brightest lawyers, and the REC team is the leading real estate and construction team in New Zealand.
I am delighted to be leaving the firm and the REC team in such good heart, and I would like to pass on my profound thanks to everyone who has been part of my Russell McVeagh adventure over the last three decades."
Board Chair David Butler added,
"Ed leaves the partnership with the respect, gratitude and friendship of so many people across our firm. His legacy can be seen not only in the landmark projects he has worked on but also in the strength of the team he leaves behind and the many people whose careers he has helped foster.
While we will miss him, we could not be more pleased to see him take up this important role. On behalf of everyone at Russell McVeagh, I thank Ed for everything he has given to the firm and wish him every success as he begins this next chapter on the bench."
Practice Group Chair of Real Estate & Construction Sarah Blackmore said,
"Ed has been at the heart of our Real Estate & Construction practice for many years. He has played an extraordinary role in shaping the team we are today, not only through his legal expertise, which is evidenced in the number of complex and transformational projects the team has been involved in, but through his ability to inspire and mentor others, fostering growth and development of so many colleagues throughout his career.
We are incredibly proud of his achievement and thankful for the lasting impact he has had on our team, our clients and our firm."