OUR TEAM

Ataga’i Esera Director
LLB/BCA

Ataga’i brings a wealth of experience, perspective and genuine care to her role as Director of Family Law Specialists. Proudly of Samoan and New Zealand descent, she values the importance of relationships, community and creating positive outcomes for those she works alongside. For more than ten years, Ata has been a trusted part of the Family Law Specialists team, assisting clients across a broad range of family law matters. She is also highly experienced in representing children and ensuring their voices and interests remain at the forefront of decision-making. Known for her approachable nature and steady presence, Ata is committed to helping people move forward with confidence and clarity. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new destinations and making memories with family and friends.

Lili-Marina Stanley, Director
LLB/BA

Lili brings over twenty years' experience in private practice to Family Law Specialists, having practised across the Hutt Valley and Hawera.Born and bred in Wellington, Lili attended St Mary's College before going on to study a Bachelor of Arts and an LLB at Victoria University of Wellington.

A senior family lawyer, Lili sits on both the Lawyer for Child and Lawyer for Subject Persons lists, and also undertakes legal aid and private client work. Beyond her legal practice, Lili is a proprietorsrepresentative (Whanau Mercy Education) to the school Board of her alumni, St Mary's College, Wellington and is a board member of Kupenga o Moana based in Lower Hutt. A staunch supporter of the Hurricanes and the All Blacks Rugby teams, Lili loves spending time with her family and friends, and travelling the world.


Jane Byres, Solicitor
LLB,BA

Jane Byres is a Porirua local who is proud to live and work in the community she calls home. A graduate of Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington with degrees in Law and Criminology, Jane has extensive experience across all areas of family law, including separation, relationship property, care of children, family violence matters, wills, enduring powers of attorney, and estate matters. Jane is known for her warm, practical approach and is committed to helping clients navigate challenging situations with confidence and care.

Rebeka-Mae KiwaraCaitlin Kingsford,Solicitor
LLB /BA

Ko Pukeamaru te maunga
Ko Karakatūwhero te awa
Ko Horouta te waka
Ko Ngāi Tamakoro me Te Whānau a Te Aopare ngā hapū
Ko Paerauta te marae
Ko Ngāti Porou te iwi
Ko Kiwara tōku whānau
Ko Rebeka-Mae au.
E noho mai au i te korowai atawhai o Ngāti Toarangatira whānui
Tēnei te mihi ki a koutou katoa

I was born and raised in Te Awakairangi/Lower Hutt before I moved down to Dunedin for university. I graduated in 2019 with a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts (majoring in Political Science). Not long after completing my professional legal studies in 2019, I headed off  to Scotland where I lived for a brief period. Following my return home in 2020, I was admitted to the bar.

Prior to joining Family Law Specialists in July 2026, I was a solicitor at Oranga Tamariki for 5 years where I supported the sites across the Wellington region.
Outside of mahi, I love to spend my spare time with my beautiful baby and whānau.

Caitlin Kingsford, Staff Solicitor
LLB /BSC (Pscyh)

Tēnā koutou katoa
Ko Ingarangi me, Kōtirana me, Aerihi me tōku whakapapa 
Ko Turanga nui a Kiwa  te whenua tupu
Ko Turanga nui a Kiwa te kāinga
Kei  Te Whanganui a Tara au e noho ana
He Staff Solicitor au i Family Law Specialists Ltd
Ko Caitlin au
Tēnā tātou katoa

Caitlin is a staff solicitor at Family Law Specialists who works across a wide range of family law matters. She enjoys helping clients through what can often be difficult and emotional times, providing clear advice and practical support every step of the way. Outside of work, Caitlin loves getting lost in a good book, playing netball, and discovering new places and experiences around Wellington.

Isa Tuveve, Personal Assistant

Isa has been part of the Family Law Specialists team since 2023 and is often one of the first friendly faces clients meet when they contact the firm. Originally from Samoa and a long-time Porirua resident, Isa plays an important role in supporting both clients and the legal team, helping ensure matters run smoothly from the first enquiry through to resolution. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, baking, exploring new recipes, and supporting her nephews at their weekend sporting events.

Trish Wagner, Personal Assistant

Trish has worked in the legal profession for most of her career and has been part of the Family Law Specialists team since 2001. With extensive experience supporting clients, lawyers, Court staff, and other professionals, Trish plays a key role in ensuring the firm runs smoothly and that clients feel welcomed and supported from their very first contact with the office. Known for her friendly, practical approach, she enjoys helping people navigate what can often be challenging times.

Outside of work, Trish enjoys gardening, travelling throughout New Zealand, spending time with family and friends, and making special memories with her grandchildren. She is also a keen knitter and loves creating handmade treasures for her family.

Suzanne Hendry, Personal Assistant

Suzanne joined Family Law Specialists (FLS) after a career in teaching in both New Zealand and the United Kingdom. While later completing a New Zealand Diploma in Business, she discovered a strong interest in law and the important role it plays in helping people navigate significant life events. Suzanne loves being part of the FLS family and enjoys supporting both the team and clients to ensure everyone feels welcomed and cared for. Outside of work, she enjoys travelling to visit her four sons who live overseas, spending time in the garden with her husband, and relaxing with a good book.


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