Stephen Hembrow was admitted to the bar in 1980 and joined Riverlands Chambers in 2001, becoming Head of Chambers in 2011. He began his career at Hannan Seddon in Greymouth, where after three years he became a partner, before moving to Young Hunter in 1988 where he went on to serve as Senior Litigation Partner. Over his career, he has appeared in lengthy High Court murder trials, appellate work in the Court of Appeal, and even before the Privy Council.

With more than four decades in practice, Stephen has developed wide-ranging expertise in criminal law, family law, youth justice, mental health matters, and as Lawyer for Child. He enjoys meeting people and guiding them through the often daunting legal processes they face. His approach is centred on listening to clients and working with them to achieve the best possible results.

Stephen studied law at the University of Canterbury and is a qualified ski instructor. He has held numerous professional roles, including past President of the Criminal Bar Association, and is currently a member of the New Zealand Law Society, the Family Courts Association, the Family Law Section, and the Criminal Bar Association.

Away from his legal work, Stephen is committed to staying fit and active. He enjoys skiing, golf, tennis, and time at the gym. An obsessive reader, he values the balance of physical activity and intellectual engagement.

Reflecting on his career, Stephen says: “I have been fortunate to have a career that is now 46 years. In that time I have learnt that to help a client I need to listen to them and then work together to get the best legal results.”