Freebairn & Hehir Team
A modern law firm, we work closely with a smaller number of clients, providing a responsive and highly tailored service.
John Freebairn
John is a knowledgeable and highly experienced lawyer having practiced in the Manawatū for over 30 years across property and business law, trust, estate advice and corporate insolvency law.
John is passionate about giving back to the community and provides advice on legal matters to many organisations and charities. He is a current trustee on the board of Arohanui Hospice, having previously been a chairman, and is also a member and past president of the Rotary Club of Palmerston North.
John is an Associate of the Arbitrators and Mediators Institute of New Zealand.
John completed a Bachelor of Law at Victoria University of Wellington and was admitted in 1983.
Liam Hehir
Liam is a “general practitioner” of the law and has strong connections to the rural community. He is a trusted advisor to many farming families. He has also developed a strong practice advising start-ups and not-for-profit organisations.
You may recognise Liam from his many appearances on national radio, television, digital and print publications as a political commentator.
Liam completed a Bachelor of Arts (History and Political Science) and a Bachelor of Laws at Victoria University of Wellington and was admitted in 2009.
Karina Job
Karina has grown up in the Manawatū and returned to Palmerston North after completing a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws at Victoria University.
Karina has been practicing in Palmerston North since 2006. She has practiced in large law firms as a general practitioner with particular expertise in elder law, trusts and property matters.
In 2021, Karina commenced practice as in-house Counsel for Oranga Tamariki, and in 2023 joined private practice to pursue her passion for family law.
Karina considers it a privilege to be your trusted advocate at a time that can be incredibly stressful. She is committed to building a strong relationship of trust and confidence with her clients and providing legal advice which is clear and practical.
Karina is an approved legal aid provider for family services as well as a provider of the Family Legal Advice Service.
Miriam Betts
With over 30 years’ experience working in law firms across New Zealand and England, Miriam brings an efficient and friendly service to her clients.
Miriam specialises in residential conveyancing, guiding you through the process of buying, selling and refinancing properties and providing a seamless and stress-free experience to her clients.
Miriam is a Registered Legal Executive and member of The Legal Institute of NZ and an Associate member of The New Zealand Law Society.
Brianna Freebairn
Brianna’s key areas of focus are relationship property agreements, elder law, wills and powers of attorney.
Her friendly approach and ability to deliver advice that’s easy to understand helps clients feel comfortable in the legal environment.
Brianna completed her law degree and a Bachelor of Arts (majoring in psychology) at Victoria University of Wellington in 2018. She was admitted to the bar later the same year.
Steven Raaymakers
Steven works across commercial and residential property, commercial law, wills, and estates.
Steven is known for his accuracy, integrity, and dedication, bringing a relationships-focused approach to law, always striving to achieve the best results for his clients.
Steven is a member of the NextGen Lawyers Committee for The Law Association.
Steven completed a Bachelor of Laws at University of Auckland and a Bachelor of Graphic Design at University of Waikato and was admitted in 2021.
Samantha Major
Julie Oke
Diana Edmundson
Georgia Tindle