Elizabeth Chan

Elizabeth Chan holds an LLB (Hons)/BA from the University of Auckland, completed in 2012, and an LLM from Yale University, obtained in 2015.

Lizzie chan

Key facts:

Programme: Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Graduation year: 2012
Scholarship: University of Auckland Scholarship (2007), University of Auckland Study Abroad Scholarship (Languages and Literature (2008)

Born in Hong Kong and raised in New Zealand from the age of five, Elizabeth has built an impressive international legal career. She currently resides in Hong Kong and works as a Consultant at Stevenson, Wong & Co., specialising in dispute resolution, international arbitration, and cross-border litigation.

Elizabeth’s academic journey is marked by numerous accolades, including the University of Auckland Scholarship in 2007, the Maxwell Walker Memorial Scholarship in 2009, and the Simpson Grierson Law Scholarship in 2010. She also received the Senior Scholar Award for her Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and earned First in Course Awards in Conflict of Laws and European Commercial Litigation in 2011.

Her career began as a judge’s clerk at the New Zealand Supreme Court. She has since qualified to practice in four jurisdictions: New Zealand, New York, England and Wales, and Hong Kong. Her expertise spans various industries, including pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, real estate, fintech, and virtual assets. Elizabeth has contributed significantly to the legal field through her work in international arbitration and cross-border litigation. She has also written papers on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and law and helped draft guidelines on using AI in arbitration for the Silicon Valley Arbitration and Mediation Centre.

Elizabeth remains actively connected to the University of Auckland community. She initiated a monthly alumni networking programme in Hong Kong and co-launched the Kiwi Lawyers in Hong Kong group, fostering connections among legal professionals with ties to New Zealand. Reflecting on her journey, Elizabeth says:

"The robust legal foundation I gained at Auckland enabled me to pursue an international career. My honours thesis on enforcing international arbitral awards was pivotal in finding work in international arbitration."

She encourages prospective students to think carefully about their goals and aspirations. Valuing the mentorship she received; Elizabeth is eager to support others in their academic and professional journeys.

For those interested in joining the alumni network or seeking mentorship, Elizabeth can be reached at eht.chan@gmail.com.