The Duncan Cotterill partner discusses a significant criminal case he was able to be part of
Duncan McGill got into law because he “wasn’t much good at maths or science”. Nonetheless, it’s a career path that has paid off for the litigation and dispute resolution lawyer, who now describes his role as protecting the reputations, practices, and futures of the professionals he works with.
In the first part of this interview, the Duncan Cotterill partner talks working on a criminal case while a senior associate in London, and tells NZ Lawyer why he encourages lawyers to take on all opportunities.
What made you choose a career in law, and what's your favourite part of the job?
To be honest, I wasn’t much good at maths or science, and my parents expected me to go to university, so law it was. But I’ve grown to really value the work. What I enjoy most is helping people navigate and resolve significant disputes — often ones that have a real impact on their lives and careers.
Most of my work involves defending professionals: health professionals, lawyers, engineers, architects, accountants, whose performance has been called into question. The stakes are high, and the outcomes can be career-defining. I see my role as protecting their reputations, their practices, and ultimately, their futures.
What in your opinion has been the most memorable event of your career to date?
One of the most memorable events was acting for the Chief Constable of South Yorkshire Police, who was charged with manslaughter in relation to the deaths of 96 people at Hillsborough Football Stadium in 1989. The trial was in 2000, while I was a senior associate at a London law firm. I worked alongside a partner and Queen’s Counsel on the case. It was unforgettable for many reasons: the enduring grief of the victims’ families 11 years on, and the devastating impact the charges had on the Chief Constable’s life.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in your career, and what advice can you give fellow lawyers about it?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to take every opportunity that comes your way. Get involved in as many areas of work as you can — you’ll learn something valuable from every experience. While I’m not a criminal lawyer now, being part of the Hillsborough case was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It taught me the importance of saying yes and backing yourself.
If you could relive one day in your life, which day would it be and why?
The day I got my final law exam results. It meant I never had to sit another exam again and I had a very lengthy evening celebrating!
