DLA Piper's Aoife O'Gorman named “Young Influencer” among NZ Lawyer’s Most Influential

DLA Piper is proud to announce that Aoife O'Gorman, Special Counsel and a Pro Bono Co-Director at the firm in New Zealand, has been recognised as a Young Influencer in NZ Lawyer’s Most Influential Lawyers 2024. The top 25 honourees are described by NZ Lawyer as distinguished lawyers who consistently surpass expectations and set high standards for the industry.

Aoife's passion and drive have helped to accelerate the firm’s pro bono efforts. Her leadership has significantly influenced 92% of DLA Piper's lawyers in New Zealand to actively engage in pro bono work, contributing over NZD1.3 million in services to clients such as the UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency), UNICEF, Te Ara Ture, and the Auckland Community Law Centre. By advocating internally and externally for targeted pro bono efforts to those in society with the greatest need, Aoife's work has raised awareness on access to justice issues and created a substantial impact.

Aoife’s notable contributions include reforming the firm's contributions to the Refugee Legal Advice Service (RILAS) programme, assisting refugees and vulnerable migrants with family reunification and legal support. Engaging delegates from prominent organisations such as Westpac New Zealand and AIA to jointly participate, Aoife has been a driving force for DLA Piper's South Pacific Teaching Programme in Fiji and Vanuatu, collaborating with NGOs on legal research initiatives aimed at reducing statelessness in the APAC region.

As Special Counsel in DLA Piper’s corporate practice group, Aoife specialises in M&A, venture capital, and corporate governance and advisory. With over 14 years of international experience, Aoife has a well-respected breadth and depth of experience and she regularly advises on complex high-value corporate legal matters. Most of her work involves cross-border M&A and in-bound investment transactions. She also advises offshore and domestic venture funds investing in New Zealand, particularly in the tech sector. Her expertise and dedication have earned her the title of 'Rising Star' in the Legal 500 Asia-Pacific rankings for the past three consecutive years.

Aoife's sphere of influence transcends boundaries. She is a champion for cultural change, particularly in advancing the aspirations of emerging female leaders. Aoife mentors young lawyers, aspiring law students, and has previously volunteered as a mentor for the GirlBoss Edge programme. She is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion within the legal profession, contributing to DLA Piper's Head Start programme, which supports talented young people from diverse backgrounds in pursuing legal careers.

The firm's Country Managing Partner, Laura Scampion, was also recognised in the 'Changemaker' category of the Most Influential Lawyers List.