Vicky Stark
Knowledge Manager
What does your role involve?
I spend a lot of my time managing the Lawlink precedent collection, which comprises over 2000 documents that have been collated over the last 15 years. I manage the updating and work with authors, and teams of authors to identify any gaps in the collection and work out where any changes need to be made. I also coordinate the research and information service for Lawlink, responding to member queries for copies of judgments, pieces of legislation and journal articles from NZ and overseas. The final element of my role involves training members on the use of our library databases and precedents.
What qualities and experience do you bring to the role?
I have a legal background, having practised in the area of family and civil litigation in Hamilton. I also have experience in information services, having worked in the library of a major New Zealand law firm. While living in England, I was employed by an industry body: an association built on a similar premise as Lawlink. As a result of my experience, I understand the dynamics of the organisation and legal practice. The role demands a high level of attention to detail, which is one of my strengths, as well as the ability to be well organised and thorough. We are a small team, and so it is also important that I work well on my own as well as with others.
What do you find rewarding about working at Lawlink?
The best thing for me about working here is being able to help people find the information that they really need, and quickly; sometimes they need to be in court in the next 10 minutes. I also enjoy the training aspect of the role and the contact with the members. We have some great people in the network and I like getting out there and representing Lawlink. I also appreciate the range and variety of work I do.
What makes Lawlink special?
Over the last seven years, it has been gratifying to see the high level of peer contact and exchange of ideas between member firms at all levels. This is particularly evident at the annual Lawlink conference, where a lot of information is shared. Working in a standalone role, say as an IT manager in a regional centre, can be a bit isolating, which is where the benefits of being part of Lawlink come in to play. Peers at other firms can be a great source of support and I have seen some strong friendships develop.
Contact details
Email: vicky.stark@lawlink.co.nz
Phone: 09 300 5475