Dawn Kerrison

Deputy Chief Legal Adviser: Ministry of Transport

He uri ahau nō Ngāti Mākino

Ko Dawn Kerrison tōku ingoa

I have worked for various public sector agencies since graduating university in 2013. You could say that I “fell into” working in-house. While studying, I was not attracted to joining one of the big firms, but unaware of the opportunities and variety working as a Solicitor within the public service provided. Shortly after finishing Professional Studies, I joined the Ministry of Transport as a Graduate Policy Adviser and then was offered an opportunity by the former Chief Legal Adviser to undertake a one year secondment in the legal team. Being able to learn from experienced and principled Solicitors, while advising policy clients and Ministers on the machinery of government and legislative design to make good law provided a strong foundation for me as a junior Solicitor.

My role now allows me to pass on the skills and experience gained to new Solicitors coming through who are keen to help others and support the making of legislation - in the manner and with the same care that was given to me.