NZLawyer talks with newly appointed associate at Baldwins Intellectual Property, Lucy Hopman.
What made you decide to become a lawyer?I loved studying law at university and took this as an indication that a legal career was for me. I was right!
How long have you worked at Baldwins and what brought you to this position?
September 1st will mark my three year anniversary. I was lucky enough to have a friend at Baldwins who alerted me to the vacancy. She encouraged me to apply and I was offered the role.
What’s the strangest case you’ve ever worked on/been involved with?
I’ve been asked to file some pretty strange trademarks. Let’s just say the prohibition against registering brands that are offensive to the public is there for a reason!
If you could invite three people for dinner, dead or alive and excluding family and friends, who would they be and why?
Leonardo Dicaprio for his good looks, radio personality Howard Stern because he always makes me laugh and Steve Jobs because he was a visionary genius.
Where’s the best place to go for a drink and/or dinner after work in Auckland?
Golden Dawn on Ponsonby Road is a favourite. The food, drinks and music are always spot on and whether I’m looking for a big night out or a quiet catch up with friends, it’s always a sure bet.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given (work or personal)?
“Invest in as much of yourself as you can, you are your own biggest asset by far”. Wise words from Warren Buffet. It’s so important to believe in yourself.
Do you have any hobbies/interests outside of work?
Reading, tennis, dancing, music and shopping!
Complete this sentence: If I wasn’t a lawyer, I would be
…a clinical psychologist. I have a bachelor of science in psychology and quite enjoy listening to people’s problems.
What do you think will be single biggest issue facing the legal space in New Zealand in 2015?
New laws need to be introduced and current ones modernised to help address our country’s economic problems. Poverty, the cost of housing and children’s rights are of particular importance to me. I hope that legislative strives are made in these areas to ensure that the most vulnerable are taken care of.
If you had John Key’s job for one day, what would you do?
Do as much as I can to increase government focus on affordable housing, poverty and the environment.
What do you love about your job?
The variety of work is fantastic, as are my colleagues! I also have a broad spectrum of clients, from pharmaceutical heavyweights, to start-ups and Kiwi fashion designers. It is incredibly rewarding to be a part of their success.
What would you change about your job right now if you could?
It would make me very happy if people were able to bring their dogs to work. I have a family dog but he’s in Wellington and my living situation up here doesn’t allow for one. Spending time at the office with canine pals would bring me great joy!
