Aasha Foley
Managing Director
Aasha Foley is the driving force behind iCLAW, blending legal expertise with business acumen to deeply understand her clients' commercial realities.
As Managing Partner, Aasha leads a team and its operations across iCLAW’s Waikato and Bay of Plenty offices, while simultaneously advising her clients as a specialist commercial lawyer.
Aasha has extensive experience advising clients across a wide range of commercial agreements associated with business ownership and investment, mergers and acquisitions, the commercialisation of intellectual property, and a strong background in corporate governance, structuring, property and finance. Aasha’s experience and special interests extend across commercial advice for key person management, employment, health and safety, and privacy.
Aasha is known as a ‘contract specialist’ with an unwavering work ethic that achieves exceptional results. Her strategic thinking, sharp instincts and foresight make her a reliable lawyer.
As a mother of two, she carefully balances family and career, providing valuable guidance to her clients while serving as a role model to her children.
While practising law on a day-to-day basis, Aasha juggles the logistics of leadership, management and operations at iCLAW. Known for her ability to identify opportunities and anticipate outcomes, Aasha is an insightful, precise, and pragmatic legal advisor and business owner.
Email: aasha@iclaw.com
Phone: (07) 929 4302
Mobile: 0211475687
Sam Douglas
Director
Sam sees the law as a way to improve the lives of others.
With more than 17 years' experience working at respected law firms in Auckland, Waikato and the Bay of Plenty, Sam brings a broad range of expertise to the iCLAW team.
Specialising in property and commercial law, he is a trusted adviser on commercial contracts, the sale and purchase of businesses and all aspects of commercial and residential property.
His extensive experience in this space includes greenfield and commercial subdivisions, complex due diligence investigations, construction, large-scale leasing projects, financing and technical title advice.
Sam also assists clients with asset planning, including trusts, wills and relationship property matters.
Sam is known by his clients as a practical and conscientious advisor that goes the extra mile. His motivation to help clients get the best results extends to everything he does, whether it’s a large and complex commercial deal or helping a family get into their first home.
Sam is one of only nine lawyers in Hamilton to be named an 'Accredited Property Law Specialist" by the Property Law Section of the New Zealand Law Society.
Email: sam@iclaw.com
Phone: (07) 929 4303
Mobile: 027 465 7791
Isaac Whatnall
Associate
Isaac Whatnall is a pragmatic and knowledgeable legal advisor with nearly a decade of experience in respected Waikato firms. Known for his problem-solving approach and unwavering dedication, Isaac is a champion of the people, committed to achieving the best outcomes for his clients in every situation.
His areas of expertise include property law, trusts and estates, relationship property, and commercial law. Isaac has a strong track record of resolving complex trust and relationship property matters, regularly advising clients on contracting out agreements and the division of property following separation.
Isaac’s genuine interest in property law makes him a trusted advisor for clients navigating sales, purchases, and property-related disputes. His commercial acumen also ensures that clients receive sound, practical advice when structuring transactions or resolving disputes.
In addition to his client work, Isaac is a respected team leader, providing mentorship and guidance to junior solicitors within the practice.
Outside of work, Isaac balances his time between socialising with friends and outdoor pursuits, including boxing, swimming, and hiking—though his wife Narinder often reminds him that “rest days” are part of the program too.
Email: isaac@iclaw.com
Phone: (07) 595 0965
Simmi Singh
Associate
Simmi makes things happen.
A problem-solver who prides herself on efficiency, she is passionate about commercial law and is known for making commercial deals happen.
Simmi comes from a dispute resolution background, working predominately in commercial law and specialising in intellectual property rights. She is also a member of the Law Society Civil litigation committee, which works to improve the administration of civil justice in New Zealand.
While Simmi predominately advises clients on breach of contract and commercial issues, she has a diverse experience of the law and is driven by doing the right thing for her clients.
Simmi believes that for New Zealand to continue to lead the world in research and development, Kiwi’s need to own and guard their intellectual property.
Solutions focused, Simmi sees the law as a way to improve the lives of her clients.
Email: simmi@iclaw.com
Phone: (07) 974 9179
Shannon Whyte
Associate
As an Associate, Shannon’s diverse experience of the law works in her client’s favour. Shannon works with her clients on matters relating to relationship property, commercial law, corporate finance, property, trusts and estates.
Known for going above and beyond for her clients and having an eye for detail, Shannon uses the law to help her clients achieve their goals. Efficient and dedicated, Shannon will get you what you need, when you need it.
Shannon has a strong interest in the community and believes that everyone should have the same access to legal advice, information, and support. She is passionate about initiatives that promote greater collaboration between the profession and law schools and is an active participant in the Waikato New Lawyers network.
Email: shannon@iclaw.com
Phone: (07) 929 4304
Gemma Martin
Senior Solicitor
Part of both the Property and Commercial teams, Gemma supports clients with navigating a range of complex issues. Her passion for business makes Gemma a skilled advisor with commercial contracts and disputes. A specialist in residential and commercial property transactions, she is also well-versed in property law. In addition, Gemma’s expertise extends to establishing wills and maintaining trusts.
Driven and reliable, Gemma prides herself on working with her clients to achieve the best results. Her enthusiasm and empathetic nature, combined with her research approach, means no challenge is ever too great.
Gemma joined iCLAW as an office assistant and law clerk and has become a solicitor (and now Senior Solicitor) since completing her Bachelor of Laws with First Class Honours. She enjoys keeping fit and outside of work spends time at the gym or playing football.
Email: gemma@iclaw.com
Phone: (07) 929 4479
Tyla Robinson
Solicitor
First meeting the iCLAW team in 2018 while peddling Christmas cookies (don't ask her about it), Tyla is known for her willingness to take on any challenge, and her outgoing personality. Since joining the team in 2021, she has been focused on achieving exceptional results for her clients in both property and company law matters.
Adopting a client-centered approach, whether it's assisting clients in navigating complex corporate transactions or buying their first home, her knowledge and skill ensure that her clients receive tailored guidance through their legal matters. With a genuine passion for the law and a drive for excellence, Tyla approaches each matter with enthusiasm and unwavering determination. Her interest in company law allows her to provide comprehensive and insightful advice to individuals and organizations alike.
Tyla has also recently been appointed Chairperson of the Waikato Young Professionals committee, a non-profit group dedicated to running educational and networking events for Waikato professionals in the first years of their careers.
Outside of work, you'll find Tyla not far from a restaurant, clothing boutique or bookshop. While her storytelling may need some work, we trust Tyla's advice on where to eat and what to buy. She's also a sucker for roast potatoes, and never misses a Sunday meal with her family.
Email: tyla@iclaw.com
Phone: (07) 929 4443
Annabel Jordan
Solicitor
Annabel joined iCLAW as a solicitor in July 2023.
Annabel graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Waikato – Te Piringa, Faculty of Law in 2022, and was admitted to the bar at the Hamilton High Court in 2023.
Annabel strives to provide quality advice to clients. She believes in the importance of building a strong relationship with clients and is dedicated to providing the knowledge and support needed to make informed decisions and reach the best possible outcomes for her clients.
Outside of work, Annabel enjoys staying active and spending time with friends and family.
Email: annabel@iclaw.com
Phone: (07) 595 0962
Tom Phillips
Solicitor
After graduating the University of Waikato in 2021, Tom moved up to Auckland and spent time working at a boutique property firm on Shortland Street in which he specialised in general property law and asset planning. In joining iCLAW, Tom is looking to broaden his horizons and delve into a wider range of legal practise and hopes to bring a hands on and pragmatic approach for his clients. When not getting stuck into the legal nitty gritty, you’ll find Tom either trying (and generally failing) to catch a wave, fishing for his golf ball in a water hazard, or climbing a mountain.
Email: tom@iclaw.com
Phone: (07) 595 0967
Peeti Brooking
Solicitor
Bringing over 2 years’ experience being in the real estate sector, Peeti brings to iCLAW a fresh perspective and extensive exposure to the conveyancing and commercial sector.
After graduating from the University of Waikato in 2021, Peeti embarked on her career journey as a real estate administrator. As an admin, Peeti assisted real estate agents with various legal queries, including writing custom clauses, interpreting legal terms, drafting and processing contracts.
Instilling a strong client-focused approach, Peeti prioritises communication and accuracy in all matters to give clients peace of mind.
Proud of her Māori heritage, Peeti traces her whakapapa back to Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Porou, and Te Aitanga-a-Māhaki. Peeti's commitment to honouring her heritage is evident in her approach, integrating cultural sensitivity and respect into her interactions with clients and colleagues.
Outside of work, Peeti enjoys staying active, playing the piano, and working on her project cars.
Email: Peeti@iclaw.com
Phone: 07 595 0966
Aliesha Miers-Greene
Registered Legal Executive
Aliesha joined the iCLAW team in 2024, bringing with her over 8 years’ experience as a legal executive and over 12 years’ experience working in law firms, previously working in receptionist and personal assistant roles. Aliesha’s experience over this time within both large corporate and boutique firms has gained her a vast array of skills in many facets of the law.
Aliesha has a pragmatic approach to how she handles files for clients, with the ability to be able to explain even the most complex of situations in plain language, providing reassurance and comfort to her clients in stressful situations. Aliesha goes the extra mile for her clients, solving problems efficiently and logically to achieve her clients’ desired outcomes.
Aliesha’s expertise ranges from helping young couples purchase their first home, to multi-level commercial financing restructures, to large scale subdivisions. Aliesha has dealt with significant developments from inception – working with surveyors and developers on each stage of a development, to settling 60 sections within a day.
Outside of work, Aliesha spends her time at the gym, with her family, and socializing with friends.
Email: Aliesha@iclaw.com
Phone: 07 595 0963
Hannah Mills
Registered Legal Executive
32 settlements in one day? No drama. Managing and facilitating the settlement of a 121-unit development in one day? Easy.
Hannah has more than 12 years’ experience in the legal industry with expertise in civil litigation, private client, residential conveyancing, intellectual property, estates, commercial and residential developments, and commercial leases.
Primarily working in the corporate commercial team, Hannah works alongside one of New Zealand’s leading residential developers assisting with land acquisition, sell down of units, facilitating development and construction finance, subdivision of land, and managing large scale settlements.
Hannah is also the firm’s expert on residential tenancies. As a trained property manager, Hannah is able to advise her clients on both the practical and legal realities of residential tenancies and tenant/landlord issues. Did we mention, she loves a challenge?
Email: hannah@iclaw.com
Phone: (07) 929 4300
Lianna Jelaca
Registered Legal Executive
Lianna has recently joined the iCLAW team as a Legal Executive.
Lianna comes to us with 7 years of experience in the criminal, youth and family sectors. Having gained valuable experience in these areas, Lianna is committed to making a positive impact.
Email: Lianna@iclaw.com
Phone: 07 971 9288
Jess Lusby
Receptionist
Jess enjoys working in an environment where no two days are the same. She is meticulously organised, loves a challenge and learning new skills; throwing herself into an entirely new field; the world of Law.
At iCLAW, Jess works in the Hamilton office and is the first point of contact for our clients. Jess has a warm and cheerful personality which makes her perfect for our Reception role.
Jess brings experience gained working in various roles at St John ambulance from recruiting volunteers and organising events, to administrating the education program and the actual teaching of first aid to Tamariki.
Jess holds a volunteer position within St John to support the work they do in the community and naturally, has become a First Aid officer at the Hamilton branch.
Outside of work, Jess enjoys training for long distance events . She has completed an astounding 12 half ironman’s and one full ironman! She loves the discipline and achievement these events bring. When she’s done training for the day, she can be found reading a book, completing her next cross-stitch or baking.
Email: jess@iclaw.com
Phone: 07 929 4300
Rebecca Wilson
Compliance Administrator
Rebecca’s experience ranges from managing bars and restaurants, raising animals, and dabbling in the sciences, having completed a Genetics degree in 2016.
In her spare time Rebecca’s often gaming or hanging out with her mates.
Rebecca is currently studying Law and Computer Science at the University of Waikato, while working part time at iCLAW to assist with our compliance obligations and other administration tasks.
Email: Rebecca@iclaw.com
Phone: 07 929 4300
Kari Benninghaus
AML Compliance Officer
Kari is a born and raised Canuck, who also lived in Okinawa, Japan, for four years before moving to NZ in 2019.
Kari’s experience with law began in university with her undergraduate in International Relations and International Human Rights Law, which extended to her role as a public servant for the Canadian government. There she worked on litigation files and developed policies for multiparty stakeholders concerning Indigenous issues, specifically with regard to conflict resolution, negotiation, mediation, restorative justice, and consultation and accommodation.
Kari is a detailed oriented, outdoorsy individual who loves exploring with her family and two young babies. She is a bonafide foodie and travel enthusiast who dabbles in art, language, and pottery.
Kari is thrilled to be a part of the iCLAW team. You can find her with the red hair; happy to answer any of your questions about Customer Due Diligence.
Email: kari@iclaw.com
Ellen Brooks
Trust Account & Marketing Assistant
Ellen joined the team at iClaw to assist with Trust Accounts and Marketing. She is also keen to muck in with any day-to-day administrative duties as required.
With a versatile background, Ellen brings valuable experience from various industries to her role. Before her current position, Ellen was a practice manager within the dental prosthetics industry. Prior to that, Ellen co-managed a family hospitality business located in Pauanui Beach for six years.
Outside of work, Ellen enjoys fishing, hanging out with her dog Blue (her baby), and holidaying in tropical spots with her partner, family, and friends.
Email: Ellen@iclaw.com
Phone: 07 974 4846
Sharlene Bhatia
Legal Assistant
Sharlene brings a wealth of experience and a vibrant personality to her role as a Legal Assistant. Her professional journey has been anything but ordinary, spanning event organization for iconic exhibitions like the Waikato Home and Garden Show, restaurant management in Hamilton and Auckland, and even health research for Health NZ. As if that wasn’t impressive enough, she has also completed a Commercial Helicopter Pilot’s License.
As a Legal Assistant, Sharlene is driven, confident, and dedicated to providing the team with essential support. She goes out of her way to deliver top performance, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and with care. Whether it’s managing reporting, or stepping in to assist where needed, Sharlene is a reliable and proactive member of the team.
When she’s not at work, Sharlene enjoys painting, reading, walking her dog, and spending time with family and friends.
Email: sharlene@iclaw.com
Phone: 07 985 1106
Fiona Morgan
Executive Assistant
Fiona has been a key member of our team for more than three years, bringing her experience and enthusiasm to the role of Executive Assistant. With a strong background in Office Management and Personal Assistant roles within the construction industry, Fiona excels at navigating the dynamic challenges each day presents, with a honed skill in being pre-emptive.
Before transitioning to office-based – Fiona spent a decade sailing the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and North Atlantic Seas, working on private yachts. This unique experience sharpened her adaptability, organizational skills, and proactive approach to problem-solving.
At iCLAW Fiona works closely with the Partners, CE, and the team to help achieve the shared vision of the firm. She has a keen interest in the bigger picture and enjoys contributing to the strategic direction of the business as a vital part of the Senior Leadership Team.
Outside of work, Fiona embraces the fun, chaos and challenges of being a mum to two young boys. She loves discovering new wines, relaxing beach days with her husband, and staying active with her passion for BFT.
Email: fiona@iclaw.com
Phone: (07) 595 0964
Richard Briggs
Chief Executive
Richard, a high-impact globally experienced Chief Executive, brings over 20 years of strategic leadership across both the private and public sectors. His track record includes executive leadership experience across complex organisations, including multinational companies, local government, and central government.
As an independent consultant over the past two years, Richard focused on strategy development and execution, best practice governance frameworks, corporate structuring, and executive coaching.
Prior to this Richard was the Chief Executive of Hamilton City Council, leading a team of 1,200 plus in a complex multi-stakeholder environment to make a positive, significant, and enduring impact on the Hamilton community. Richard has also worked for Fonterra across several senior commercial roles in New Zealand and globally.
Richard is a big thinker who is passionate about building high-performing and strategically impactful businesses. “I was attracted to iCLAW because of their absolute focus on building high-impact individuals and teams, and their track record of delivering world-class service, advice and insights that unlock strategic value for clients,” says Richard.
Bringing Richard onboard as our Chief Executive will propel us toward our ambitions of building a world-class high-impact, high-performing law firm that will ensure our clients, employees and communities prosper well into the future.
Email: richard@iclaw.com
Phone: 07 929 4300