Law

Kieran Berry is a Master of Laws graduate, who works as Legal and Research Counsel for the Office of the Chief Coroner.

My postgraduate experience

“As a student with a visual impairment disability, I wanted to study at a world-leading institution that I knew would support me. Auckland Law School was naturally the ideal choice as New Zealand’s leading law school.

“My research considered whether people suffering an incurable psychiatric illness should be eligible for assisted dying in New Zealand. In my role, I am confronted by the psychological suffering of New Zealanders from all walks of life. My research has drastically expanded my knowledge of psychiatric illnesses and how those who suffer from them are treated by the law.”

“If you are thinking about completing a Master of Laws, you won’t regret obtaining it from Auckland Law School.”

“When I finished my undergraduate studies at the University of Auckland, I went into practice specialising in Equity Capital Markets; first with Chapman Tripp in Auckland and then with Allen & Overy in Sydney.

“Practising law fulfilled me on many levels. However, the nature of private practice does not often afford the opportunity to deeply explore an issue beyond the core legal problem. That’s why I knew I wanted to do postgraduate study.”

My work

“My role is to assist the Chief Coroner and Coroners of New Zealand with delivering the
highest quality decisions to families who have tragically lost a loved one in order to make
New Zealand a safer place for all.

“There are not many jobs where I can be a detective, a medical examiner and a judicial officer at the same time. My role is intellectually and personally rewarding, as I know that I am helping to speak for those who cannot.”

Kieran is a recipient of the University of Auckland Dean’s Law Award.

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