FAMILYTEAM
Michelle Woods
Partner
Michelle first started practice in Palmerston North in 1996 and is the other founding partner of Winter Woods Lawyers. Michelle specialises in family law and youth advocacy. She is regularly appointed as counsel for children and young persons in the Family and Youth Courts. Michelle currently serves as a District Inspector for Mental Health Services in the Manawatu region.
Michelle has a particular interest in promoting the efficient resolution of disputes, particularly in relation to children with the use of alternative dispute resolution processes where possible. She is well regarded by legal, family and youth services in the area and is known for her fair and pragmatic approach in promoting the interests of vulnerable members of our community.
Carly Linton
Partner
Carly graduated from Otago University with a Bachelor of Laws in 2004 and was admitted to the bar the same year. She began practicing in Christchurch where she worked both in the Family and Criminal Courts. After traveling, she settled back in Palmerston North in 2007 and has been with WinterWoods ever since.
She has over 15 years experience in litigation both in the District Court and High Court jurisdictions. Carly is an approved provider for Legal Aid and is also recognised as a Lawyer for Child and Counsel to Assist.
Born and raised in the Rangitikei, she is committed to providing down to earth advice and support for her clients.
Nicole Kelly
Associate
Nicole graduated from the University of Canterbury in 2010 with a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts. Originally from Northland, Nicole chose to relocate to the Manawatu region where she practiced as an in-house counsel for the Ministry of Social Development for over 6 years.
With this experience, she joined our growing Family law team in 2017.
Nicole is focussed on ensuring her clients have quality committed representation.
Davida Iosefa
Solicitor
Holding a double degree in Law and Commerce (majoring in Commercial Law and Management) from the University of Auckland, Davida was admitted as a barrister and solicitor of the High Court in 2020.
Davida has recently moved to Palmerston North from South Auckland. Since joining the firm, Davida has worked closely with support networks such as Women’s Refuge and Te Roopu Whakaruruhau o Nga Wahine. She is an approachable person who is willing to provide practical and quality advice.
Niki Ellingham
Legal Assistant- Support Coordinator
Niki has been working in the legal industry for 13 years, dealing mainly with family law, and has experience in criminal and conveyancing.
She enjoys travel having spent two years in London working for one of the key health regularity law firms.
Aries Pearson
Legal Assistant
Aries has also recently joined our expanding firm. She has a number of years of experience, offers exceptional support, and is a valued member of the family litigation team.
Lauren Emirali
Legal Assistant
Originally from the Kapiti Coast, Lauren relocated to the Manawatu and has worked with WinterWoods for nearly 4 years.
Lauren has significant experience in administrative roles and now focuses on legal support work for Famil Law.
Brooke Davidson
Legal Assistant
The newest member of WinterWoods, Brooklyn has begun working with us to gain experience in all aspects provided within the legal support role. She now has plans to complete her Legal Executive Course beginning this year