Congratulations Grace Milne – Admitted to the Bar!

AWS Legal is proud to celebrate the recent admission of Grace Milne as a Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand. Grace was formally admitted at a ceremony held in Dunedin on 21 October 2025, surrounded by her closest supporters – including her mother Janet Copeland (who had the honour of acting as her moving counsel), Father Scott Milne, partner Te Hirea, Nana Lane (Lorraine), Aunty Tracey, Nana Val, and Grandad Garry.

Grace joined AWS Legal on 1 September 2025, bringing with her a dual degree in Law and Commerce (LLB/BCom) from the University of Otago. 

“Growing up, the law and the life of a lawyer was ever present, so I felt it was only natural that I follow in my mother’s footsteps,” Grace shared. “I wanted to come home to Invercargill and give back to the community that I called home for the first 18 years of my life.”

Grace’s choice to join AWS Legal was driven by the firm’s full-service offering and its reputation for fostering growth and learning across diverse legal disciplines.

“Why AWS Legal? WHY NOT!! It was a no-brainer,” Grace said. “The opportunity to explore a wide range of experiences as I begin my career was incredibly appealing.”

Reflecting on her admission day, Grace described it as “a whirlwind of nerves and excitement – an unforgettable experience.” She added:

“Being admitted to the bar was both an honour and a privilege, made even more meaningful by having my mum, Janet, as my moving counsel. A particularly lovely (and slightly poetic) detail: I was admitted in the very same courtroom she was, some years ago – give or take a decade.”

Janet Copeland, Grace’s mother and moving counsel, expressed her pride:

“It was such a thrill to move the admission of my daughter Grace. It was lovely to see the culmination of many years of hard work and perseverance come together. Grace is really enjoying the caring and supportive environment that AWS Legal provides, and it is great to see her flourish and grow as a lawyer and as a person.”

AWS Legal Partner Damien Pine also shared his congratulations:

“AWS Legal are exceptionally proud of Grace’s admission to the Bar. During her time with us, Grace has already demonstrated all the attributes of a trusted advisor. We believe this marks the beginning of a successful, distinguished and rewarding career in the law. Ngā mihi Grace — we are so proud of your achievement.”

Welcome to the profession, Grace. We’re thrilled to have you as part of the AWS Legal team and look forward to watching your career thrive.