New Zealand Law Society - Family affair at Wellington admission ceremony

Family affair at Wellington admission ceremony

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Palmerston North's Clark brothers were the centre of a proud family outing to the old High Court in Wellington last month for their admission to the bar.

Richard, 25, and his brother Simon, 24, were called to the bar by their older sister Vanessa who had travelled all the way from Perth where she is an associate at the law firm Slater and Gordon.

Clark siblings
Simon Clark, Vanessa Clark and Richard Clark 

Mum Amanda, Dad Ken, a doctor, and eldest daughter Olivia were also present, along with baby Ariana and their partners to witness the special family occasion.

The admitted Clark siblings are each products of the University of Canterbury school of law, Richard from the class of '08, Simon from the Class of '10. It was there they developed a focus on commercial practise that is now gainfully employed by Fitzherbet Rowe and Cooper Rapley, respectively, two "rival" firms from the brothers' home town.

"We had a great day with the whole family," Simon says.

"Mum and Dad seemed pretty chuffed. Mum was shedding a few tears during our speeches and Dad looked a little starry eyed."

Clark family
The Clark family

"To join such a prestigious profession, alongside my brother Richard was a real honour."

"And for our sister Vanessa to make it over from Australia to act as our moving counsel was also really special. She's been a huge influence on both of us and it was great to have her share the day with us. The old high court really added to the experience."

Simon and Richard both made a small speech to Judge Mallon, "mostly just thanking the family".

They celebrated the evening over "a few beers", whilst being cautious not to spill any on the expensive and borrowed gowns and wigs they were admitted in.

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