About McCabe Family Legal Solutions
At McCabe Family Legal Solutions, we pride ourselves on our team of dedicated lawyers who are committed to providing exceptional legal services. Our top notch attorneys bring a wealth of experience, compassion, and expertise to every case, ensuring that you receive the best possible support and guidance. Get to know our McCabe Family Legal team.
Isla McCabe
Principal of McCabe Family Legal Solutions
Isla McCabe, Principal of McCabe Family Legal Solutions, brings a wealth of expertise to her practice. She holds a BA/LLB from the University of Auckland and an LLM from the London School of Economics. With nearly 20 years of experience in general civil litigation and a specialization in family law, Isla has developed a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges of family law cases.
Isla’s extensive background includes work in both large and mid-sized firms, where she has learned that bigger is not always better, particularly in family law matters. She is dedicated to providing her clients with top-notch legal advice in a timely and respectful manner.
Her diverse practice includes representing clients from various backgrounds, both within Auckland and internationally. Isla frequently appears in Family Courts across Auckland, as well as the District Court, High Court, and other courts throughout New Zealand.
Isla is an active member of the Family Legal Section of the New Zealand Law Society, reflecting her commitment to the field and her clients.
Howard Barns
Barrister and Solicitor
Howard transitioned to McCabe Family Legal Solutions from a central Auckland law firm, where he gained extensive experience as both a corporate lawyer and a specialist in family law. Alongside his expertise in relationship property, trusts, divorce, domestic violence, and care of children matters, Howard has a strong background in corporate law, making him uniquely positioned to handle complex cases that involve business or financial interests. His friendly and approachable manner complements his deep legal knowledge, ensuring that every client receives the highest standard of representation and service. Howard provides strategic pathways for clients, helping them navigate the legal implications for families, associations, and corporate entities alike. He welcomes your inquiries and looks forward to assisting you.
George Smith
Barrister and Solicitor
George is a family law specialist with extensive experience advocating for clients and guiding them through the challenges of separation. Taking a pragmatic and client-centered approach to conflict resolution, George works closely with clients to ensure they fully understand their legal rights and obligations, always striving to achieve the best possible outcomes for them.
George’s expertise spans all areas of family law, including:
- Drafting contracting out agreements (commonly known as “prenups”)
- Resolving relationship property division following separation
- Managing spousal maintenance arrangements
- Organizing child custody and care arrangements post-separation
- Addressing disputes between guardians, including matters related to children’s welfare such as COVID-19 vaccination issues
- Navigating child relocation after separation
- Handling family violence and safety concerns
- Assisting with surrogacy matters
George graduated with an LLB (Hons) from the University of Auckland in 1993 and has worked in both a large commercial law firm and a boutique family law practice. He joined the dedicated family legal team at McCabe Family Legal. Solutions in February 2022 and enjoys collaborating with the specialist team.
George has represented clients in the Family Court and High Court, and is skilled in negotiating settlements through alternative dispute resolution methods. He is also a member of the Auckland Women Lawyers Association, the New Zealand Family Law Section, and an associate member of the NZ Resolution Institute. George has experience representing children in the Family Court.
Outside of work, George enjoys spending time with his family, including his two children and his mischievous terrier.