With her approachable, friendly demeanour, Gallie Miles Senior Solicitor Rachel Cooper offers a calming, reassuring presence when people are going through sometimes difficult relationship property and commercial dispute matters. In this blog, we learn a bit more about Rachel and the not so usual path she took that saw her practicing law.
Originally from the Hawkes Bay, Rachel now lives in the Waikato with her husband and two children. She has worked as a drug investigator for New Zealand Customs and has also been a medium-sized business owner.
“I had achieved what I wanted to do owning my own company needed a new challenge. My personality is naturally inquisitive and I am goal driven, so law seemed a good fit” she says.
Rachel has been at Gallie Miles since 2020 and assists clients with drafting and advising on both contracting out and separation agreements. She works closely with Director Kirsty McDonald on matters that require mediation, arbitration or court hearings.
“With the work I do, you are meeting people at (sometimes) their lowest point, and the only way is up,” says Rachel.
“Separation is known to be one of the hardest, emotional, and challenging times of someone’s life, so being able to assist navigating our clients through that process and bring them out the other side is a privilege.”
Rachel also works alongside Director Bryce Bluett, working with commercial clients and advises on contract disputes, company liquidations and company and personal debt collection.
“I find these matters interesting and a change from relationship property, but the two can intertwine at times as well, with relationship property clients dealing with the winding up of a company or trust, sometimes with debt outstanding.”
Outside of work, Rachel is busy with family life “My weekends are just like any parent with teenage kids, taxi driver during the day (and at 3am when it’s easier to call mum - instead of a taxi) and food shopping – because apparently there is never anything to eat!”
“I enjoy a relaxed late Saturday afternoon (which often falls into the evening) catch up with friends that consists of a good bottle of wine, cheese and crackers and lots of laughs,” she says.
For those facing separation, relationship property issues, or commercial disputes, early, clear advice can make a difference to both the process and the outcome.
If you need guidance on your position or the next steps, contact Gallie Miles Lawyers to arrange a confidential discussion with Rachel Cooper.
See more
Email rachel@gallie.co.nz
Phone 07 872 0560
See Rachel's bio here
