The trans-Tasman firm has appointed Spells to its national tax practice, where she will work alongside Andrew Ryan and Joanne Dunne, and David Patterson in the firm’s Wellington office.

Spells is an experienced tax practitioner who advises clients on a wide range of legal tax issues, both contentious and non-contentious. Since arriving in New Zealand in 2002 she has practised as a solicitor at the Inland Revenue Department and as a manager in the tax team of an Auckland accounting firm.

Prior to this, Spells was a partner with Davenport Lyons in the UK.

Spells brings a wealth of experience in tax planning, both domestic and cross-border. Her expertise includes advising on disputes and the negotiation of settlements with the Inland Revenue Department, and interpretation and application of tax treaties. Spells has also developed a depth of expertise in advising on trust law, both contentious and non-contentious.