Julia Batchelor-Smith

Background

About Julia Batchelor-Smith

I have over 20 years of experience within the legal profession, both in New Zealand and internationally. In 2021, I founded Batchelor*Smith, a specialist practice offering Unit Titles Act advice to Bodies Corporate, developers, Body Corporate Managers, and property owners. I deliver pragmatic outcomes required in the complex landscape of collective living, including:* Navigating remediation projects of apartment complexes in a clear and cost-effective manner;* Drafting s74 Schemes and Remedial Works Agreements, achieving cohesion between owners and the Body Corporate;* Formulating effective solutions to resolve governance matters and create a well-functioning Body Corporate;* Reviewing and drafting contractual arrangements for Bodies Corporate; and * Advising on the full spectrum of Unit Titles Act matters, including the changes under the Unit Titles (Strengthening Body Corporate Governance and Other Matters) Amendment Act. I have represented Bodies Corporate and owners, developers, builders and contractors in mediation, Tribunal, and the Courts. I am passionate about embracing non-linear paths within the law, having purposefully adopted a hybrid model of working to accommodate my family while simultaneously advancing my career. I am a published author, having written ‘Balancing Work and Life: a Practical Guide for Lawyers'(LexisNexis 2015), and regularly comments in the media on work/life management, diversity and inclusion, and driving strategic change to create a healthy culture. In 2018, I was appointed to the New Zealand Law Society Culture Change Taskforce, committed to effecting cultural change within the legal profession. As a speaker, I have addressed local and central Government, Universities, legal associations, private corporations, and industry bodies both within New Zealand, and internationally. Please get in touch: julia@batchelorsmith.co.nz