OUR TEAM
Baden is a highly accomplished barrister and Director of High Street Law who offers over two decades of expertise defending clients against serious criminal charges and regulatory offences. Renowned for his success in complex jury trials — spanning murder, drug importation, and grave violent crimes — Baden blends sharp legal insight with a pragmatic, results-oriented approach. His exceptional communication skills and unwavering dedication ensure tailored, impactful representation that clients trust.
Luka is an experienced barrister who practices criminal law. He specialises in representing clients facing serious allegations including murder, sexual violence, aggravated robbery, large-scale drug offences and organised crime. Luka is a skilled trial lawyer and is known for his ability to simplify complex and often stressful situations, guiding his clients with clarity and confidence. He is widely respected for his strong advocacy and commitment to upholding his clients’ rights.
Valentina began her legal career as a law clerk at High Street Law in April 2022 and transitioned to her current role as an employed barrister in September 2024. Since then, she has demonstrated exceptional growth, managing a broad spectrum of criminal matters with diligence, maturity, and professionalism. Valentina has acquired experience well beyond her years, regularly entrusted with sensitive and complex cases, all of which she has approached with composure, insight, and a strong focus on achieving results.
Emma is an employed barrister, who commenced with High Street Law in early 2025. With experience in both Police Prosecutions and the Serious Fraud Office, Emma is well known and respected for her pragmatic approach and strong advocacy. Building on her previous, successful non-law career, she uses her exceptional relationship management experience to deliver the right results in a timely way for her clients. Emma is also recognised as an Associate of the Arbitrators and Mediators Institute of NZ and is a qualified mediator.
Rachel started her career working for the Crown on Treaty of Waitangi settlements and later represented claimants before the Waitangi Tribunal. Most recently, Rachel worked in a large firm’s commercial property team, gaining valuable insight into complex transactions. Rachel joined the team at High Street Law in 2025. She now focuses on providing strong, strategic legal representation in criminal defence cases. With her broad legal experience, Rachel offers a unique perspective and a thorough understanding of the law and criminal process.
Tameka is a law clerk at High Street Law, having gained over two years of professional legal experience. She holds a Bachelor of Laws and Arts from the University of Auckland and has recently completed a Professional Legal Skills course, set to be admitted to the bar in September 2025. Tameka plays an integral role in supporting our legal team—working closely with our barristers on trial preparation and maintaining a client-facing role.
Emelia is a Law Clerk at High Street Law, bringing over two years of frontline experience with the Department of Corrections as a Court Probation Officer. She holds a Bachelor of Criminal Justice from the University of Canterbury and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Laws at the University of Waikato. Emelia provides essential support to our legal team by managing client files and ensuring active matters are closely monitored and up to date. She maintains a strong client-facing role and works collaboratively with our barristers across a broad range of matters.