James Coleman (better known as ‘Jim’), Consultant with Treadwell Gordon.
What made you decide to become a lawyer and how did you come to practice in Whanganui?
My grandfather, great uncle, and father were all lawyers so it seemed to be the thing to do. I didn’t want to do anything else.
I came to Whanganui nearly 10 years ago, shifting my Waverley practice and joining Treadwell Gordon. Initially I stayed in Waverley working and living but moving to Whanganui was always on the cards.
What is one thing that you enjoy about your job and what is one thing that you wish you could change about your job?
I enjoy the relationships with clients many of whom are my personal friends as well. One thing I wish I could change is my struggle with IT but I can’t really change that more put up with it.
What hobbies or interests do you have outside of law?
I enjoy shooting clay targets and ducks; and other sports from the sofa. Music of all kinds, reading for relaxation (which I can now do since becoming a consultant), travel (which Jim has done a fair but of), and walking.
Complete this sentence: If I could be anything (other than a lawyer), I would be…
A forensic scientist. Which stems from my 30 odd years as one of Her Majesty’s Coroners.
What’s your favourite place in Whanganui?
Being beside or on the river which I have really come to appreciate since moving to Whanganui. I support the river becoming its own entity.
If you could invite 3 people for dinner, dead or alive and excluding family and friends, who would they be and why?
Elvis Presley – because he was the King, John Wayne – because he was the Duke, and Jesus – simply because of who he was.
What is the most recent book you have read or movie you have watched and how would you rate it?
Hongi Hika Warrior Chief by Dorothy Urlich Cloher – 8/10
What’s the best piece of advice (work or personal) you’ve ever been given?
My father said to me as I was going off to attend Nelson College:
Father: "Do you know how babies come?"
Jim: "I think so."
Father responds: "You’ll know a lot more soon."