About

A legacy of excellence

For over 125 years, we have been a cornerstone in the Canterbury legal community, offering expert advice, pragmatic solutions, and unwavering support to our clients. Our long-standing history is a testament to our dedication and commitment to providing exceptional legal services. While we honour our rich heritage, we are also a modern, future-focused firm, continually evolving to meet the changing needs of our clients and the legal landscape.

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At Malley & Co, our mission is to navigate the complexities of the legal landscape alongside our clients. We pride ourselves on our meticulous attention to detail and deep understanding of our clients' needs. Our goal is to ensure tailored solutions, tangible results, and peace of mind for every client we serve.

The pillars of our firm

At the heart of our firm are our partners, who bring decades of experience, exceptional leadership, and a deep commitment to our clients. Each partner not only leads their team but also plays an active role in every matter, ensuring that our high standards of service and expertise are consistently met. Their diverse backgrounds and specialised knowledge make them invaluable assets to both our firm and our clients.

Our Partners

Simon Price

Partner, LLB

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Pip Allan

Partner, LLB, BA

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Layton Ward

Partner, LLB

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Dominic Fitchett

Partner, LLB, BA

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Chantal Morkel

Partner, LLB, TEP

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Creon Upton

Partner, PhD (English), LLB

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1897
Solicitor Alfred (Alf) Malley begins practising law from a small office on the corner of Manchester and Cashel Streets.
1943
Alf’s son, Felix, joins the practice as office accountant and manager.
1944
Alf’s second son, Edmund, joins the practice as a solicitor.
1947
Alf Malley is honoured with a dinner hosted by the Canterbury District Law Society to celebrate 50 years in practice.
1966
Partner Bill Brown is appointed as a District Court judge.
1983
Malley & Co moves into offices in Cathedral Square.
1985
Partner Garry Mahon is appointed as a District Court judge.
1994
Partner Brian Callaghan is appointed as a District Court judge.
1997
Malley & Co opens an office in Hornby and celebrates 100 years in practice. Patrick Costelloe joins the Malley & Co partnership.
2011
On 22 February, the Cathedral Square building is damaged beyond repair
in the Christchurch earthquake. Malley & Co finds alternative premises in
the suburbs.
2012
In August, Malley and Co are one of the first law firms to move back into the city.
2013
In June, Malley & Co merges with Mackintosh, Bradley and Price. Simon Price joins the Malley & Co partnership.
2019
Chantal Morkel becomes a partner at Malley & Co.
2020
Partner Dominic Dravitzki is appointed as a District Court judge. Dominic Fitchett becomes a partner at Malley & Co.
2021
Phillipa (Pip) Allan becomes a partner at Malley & Co.
2022
Malley & Co celebrates 125 years in practice.
2024
In July, Creon Upton and Layton Ward become partners at Malley & Co.
In August, 12 years after occupation of their offices at Dundas Street, 
Malley & Co returns to Cathedral Square at new premises in the newly
constructed The Regent.
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We are a dynamic and forward-thinking 
law firm, with a long history as a foundation. Continuously adapting to new legal challenges and technological advancements, ensuring that our clients benefit from the most 
current and effective legal strategies. Our future-focused approach, combined with the stability and security of over a 
century in business, provides a unique 
blend of tradition and innovation.

How We Work

We are committed to solving your legal challenges with a team of understanding professionals who genuinely care about finding the right solutions for you. Our clients come to us for our reputation and stay because we genuinely care about achieving the best outcomes for them.

A clear and straightforward process

  • 1

    Information gathering

    We start by understanding the challenge you're facing, what's important to you, and your desired outcome.

  • 2

    Analysis

    Armed with your insights and the law's nuances, we dissect every detail to craft a winning strategy.

  • 3

    Advice

    We present you with your options, outlining the pros and cons of each in clear, understandable terms — empowering you to make informed decisions.

  • 4

    Implementation

    With a solid plan in hand, we roll up our sleeves and get to work, turning strategy into action for tangible results.