AWS Legal associate: The Grinch was simply misunderstood

Given a choice, Georgia Johnston’s ideal villain to defend would be the infamous Grinch – because for her, he was ultimately just misunderstood.

The AWS Legal associate believes in a dispute, it’s important to look into all the competing perspectives to identify miscommunications or misunderstandings. Johnston values her relationships with clients, and aims to use the law to make a difference.

In this interview, Johnston talks supporting those who are just starting out in the law, working with Invercargill Young Professionals on her proudest achievement over the last year, and the kind of challenges the economy could pose for lawyers.

What made you choose a career in law, and what's your favourite part of the job?

I have always had an interest in reading and writing. My interests in problem solving and developing an argument were first engaged when introduced to debating in high school; from there, a law degree seemed like a natural fit. Throughout law school it was a toss-up between pursuing a legal career or a career in politics or policy. Ultimately, through clerkships and my graduate experience it became clear you can build relationships with clients and make a real difference in their lives through a career in law.

My favourite part of my job is the relationships I’ve built with my team and the client’s.

What is going on at the organisation? Are there any new programs and initiatives that you’re particularly interested in?

AWS Legal has recently introduced trusted advisor training for all staff. I have found this very beneficial because it ensures the service clients receive is consistent across dealings with all staff.

What tech-related initiatives adopted by the organisation, if any, are you most excited about?

AWS Legal is in the process of changing practice management software systems. This process has been a helpful one because it has allowed us to consider the role technology plays in our working lives and focus in on the areas we could develop in, particularly with the emergence of AI. 

The true test will be when the new system is implemented and seeing the changes in how we work under the new system.

What has been your proudest accomplishment in the last year or so? Or what’s the biggest lesson you learned in the past year and what advice can you give fellow lawyers about it?

Working with Invercargill Young Professionals and AWS Legal to arrange a First Home Buyers seminar where one of our young solicitors, Rebecca Gooby, presented to our peers. The platform provides a great opportunity for solicitors to build relationships within the community.

What should the profession focus more on?

I believe the profession should focus more on supporting each other, particularly people new to the profession. Beginning your career in law is a real learning curve, it is challenging and demanding career. I have been very lucky to receive significant support in navigating that learning curve. This can make a huge difference in a person’s legal career.

What are the challenges you expect in your practice, and in the business of law in general, going forward? What challenges are particularly pressing in the country’s legal industry?

The economy will likely pose challenges moving forward. It can be difficult to know what those challenges will be, but it may be that the type of work clients require changes. This may present an opportunity for lawyers to adapt how they practice and find new ways for clients to achieve desired outcomes.

What are you looking forward to the most in the coming year?

Seeing how legal practice evolves in the coming months and years in the face of radical developments in technology which will have direct impacts on the way we work. 

If you had to defend a fictional antagonist/villain in court, who would you pick, and why?

The Grinch. Ultimately, he was simply misunderstood. I think it is important to consider all competing perspectives in a dispute. Often, there has been a miscommunication or misunderstanding and finding that can help resolve the dispute for your client.