About Don

Don

I have worked in law for 55 years, operating my own practice as a sole practitioner (30 years) and Managing Director in three-partner firms (16 years) until I sold out in 2022. I am a Trust Account Supervisor and Landonline Conveyancing Professional.

My previous practice was a well established law practice that commenced business in 1966

My previous practice was a well established law practice that commenced business in 1966 when the original partner opened what was then only the second law office in New Lynn and just the sixth in West Auckland. Subsequent mergers with 3 other local practices augmented the organic growth we were able to achieve over the years.

The object of the mergers is to continue the proud history of the firms as West Auckland's leading law firms. The combined practices meant increased resources are available to improve the service offered to clients which was reflected in the continued growth of the practice.

I have provided notary services since 1977 and continue to provide this service. Visit https://publicnotary.nz

In 2022 I received the Queens Service Medal (QSM) for services to the Legal Profession and Community.

Now is the time to use my over 50 years experience to help other practitioners by being available as a Locum or consultant.

More About Don

Donald Bruce THOMAS
Lawyer & Notary Public
LLB Auckland 1971
Notary Public 1978
QSM (Services to Legal Profession and Community) 2022

University of Auckland
University of NSW (Armidale) Legal Practice Management, levels 1 and 2.

Commence practice 1971:-

  • Principal since 1975
  • Sole practice 1986 - 2016
  • Director Thomas & Co Lawyers Ltd 2016 to 2022

(Merged with Titirangi Law Centre 2017 & David J Brown 2021)
(5 Directors, 5 lawyers, 4 paralegals and 3 support staff)

Legal Consultant & Notary Public 2022 - present

  • originator of NZ Document Exchange (DX) concept
  • originator of/first to introduce facsimile settlement concept
  • leader/early adopter and promoter of technology and systems in legal practices
  • first e-capable Notary in New Zealand.

Auckland District Law Society Council Member 1979 - 1985

  • Auckland District Law Society Presidential Candidate 1982 & 1983

ADLS Forms and Costs Committees 1979 - 1985

  • Originator of/first to introduce the scheduled forms concept in own practice and ADLS Forms.

Auckland District Legal Aid Committee 1980 - 1985

Occasional Seminar presenter Law Society - Practice Technology and Practice Management and LINZ e-dealing Road Show

New Zealand Society of Notaries Council 2014 to present

Personal Interests

  • Rugby Referee, 15 aside, sevens and summer touch
  • Hawke Sea Scouts, Boat Master/Management Committee Chair
  • Travel