About us

We bring law back down to earth.

At ASCO Legal, we blend local expertise with global experience to offer you the best legal services. Our diverse team hails from China, England, South Africa, and New Zealand, bringing a wealth of knowledge to every case. We pride ourselves on being approachable and breaking down complex legal matters into clear, understandable language. Your comfort and respect are our top priorities.

Our team consists of our lawyers, legal executives and support staff, including director Alistair van Schalkwyk.

Luzette and Ada joined the team soon after their admission and have been working together since 2015.

Chris and Nadia Dykes joined ASCO Legal in the latter part of 2021, having moved here from South Africa. They are duly qualified South African lawyers and practiced law for many years in South Africa and are now also admitted as lawyers here in New Zealand.

The latest addition to our team is Cassandra Bish, a native of East Auckland who has been practising law in Howick since 2018.

Our registered legal executives are Donna Handley and Kylie Osborne. Kylie is a true Kiwi and Donna originally lived and worked in England and has an array of English law experience. Our team is assisted by Jo Crequer and Hannah Owens as our legal assistants, and Roxanne van Schalkwyk as our trust accountant. 

If you are in need of a lawyer in Howick to assist you to swear or affirm an affidavit, or certify true copies of your documents, Alistair, Luzette and Ada would be happy to assist you. We love the opportunity to meet new people in our local East Auckland community, so please do not hesitate to contact us and let us know how we can help.

A Brief History of ASCO Legal

ASCO Legal was founded around 15 years ago as a breakaway from a top-tier Auckland firm. We established ourselves as a small but dynamic law firm in downtown Auckland, dedicated to providing expert legal services delivered with a down-to-earth approach.

Alistair joined the firm in 2012 and entered into partnership with Miles Agmen-Smith in 2015, with each leveraging their unique skill sets and legal specialisations. Alistair, with degrees in Commerce and Law, focuses on commercial law, property and asset protection. Miles brought his experience from leading New Zealand law firms and his tenure in the UK, along with his role as a former chairman of the Franchise Association of New Zealand (FANZ), specialising in commercial and franchising law.

After many years of partnership and growth, and following Miles’s retirement, Alistair relocated ASCO Legal from Auckland CBD to the heart of Howick, bringing the firm closer to the community.

Today, nestled in East Auckland's seaside village of Howick, ASCO Legal continues to expand its expertise in commercial and property law, committed to providing relationship-focused and understandable legal services across New Zealand.

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Our Expertise

Experience has taught us the power of efficiency

Commercial & Business Services

With a wealth of corporate, commercial, and business expertise, we understand the unique challenges of New Zealand's business landscape. We are here to provide clear, tailored legal services that meet your specific needs.

Commercial & Business Services

Asset Protection & Estate Planning

At our law firm, we take the complexities out of planning for the future. Whether it's preparing Wills, Enduring Power of Attorney (Property and Personal Care & Welfare), or Advance Directives, we ensure your wishes are clearly documented and legally sound.


We also specialise in safeguarding your family's and business's assets, mitigating risks across trusts, companies, and other corporate structures, including those for charitable purposes. Our professional team is here to provide clarity and peace of mind every step of the way.

Asset Protection & Estate Planning

Business Sale & Purchases

Navigating the complexities of business acquisition or disposal can be daunting, but you're not alone. Our dedicated team is here to assist every step of the way. With connections to business brokers, insurance specialists, accountants, bankers, and valuers, we ensure your business dealings are smooth and efficient. Let's simplify the process together.

Business Sale & Purchases

Franchising

We know the ins and outs of franchising like the back of our hands. As proud members of the Franchising Association of New Zealand, we leverage our extensive industry relationships to provide you with clear, straightforward advice.

Franchising

Property Conveyancing

Looking for a New Zealand Conveyancing Lawyer? You're in the right place. We specialise in all aspects of property law and conveyancing, making the process straightforward for your residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural property needs. Let's make your next move smooth and hassle-free.

Property Conveyancing

Pre-nups, Separations and Property Sharing

At ASCO Legal, we understand that family and personal law matters can be deeply personal and emotionally challenging. With extensive experience and a personable approach, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Trust us to navigate these sensitive times with professionalism and care.

Pre-nups, Separations and Property Sharing