About CJ Legal

Led by Auckland-based criminal defence lawyer Eric Chen, CJ Legal is a specialised criminal law firm providing expert defence for a wide array of criminal and traffic matters. The firm’s unique advantage stems from Eric Chen’s background as a former police officer, investigator, and Police prosecutor.

Fluent in both English and Mandarin, the firm connects with clients from diverse cultures and backgrounds. High-quality legal advocacy is made accessible to all, with representation available privately and through Legal Aid.

Our Approach

Dedicated Legal Advocacy

Experience and Insight

Our lawyers have experience working for the New Zealand Police as an officer and prosecutor. With experience from both sides of the table, CJ Legal provides a 360-degree understanding of the criminal justice system, enabling the firm to anticipate police tactics and effectively counter them in court.

Cultural Connection

Fluent in both English and Mandarin, CJ Legal connects with clients from diverse cultures and backgrounds, ensuring effective communication and understanding.

Comprehensive Defence

CJ Legal provides defences for a wide range of criminal and traffic matters, including;

drink driving offences, family violence and assault charges, discharge without conviction and limited licence applications.

Accessible Legal Services

High-quality legal advocacy is made accessible to all, with representation available through both Legal Aid and private instruction.

Meet the Team

Get to know your defence team

Founder & Lead Defence Lawyer

Eric Cangjie Chen

Eric (Cangjie) is a knowledge and experienced lawyer, having been a part of the criminal law field since 2008. Prior to his admission as a barrister, Eric worked as a Police officer and gradually working his way into a Prosecution role with the New Zealand Police.

Eric utilises his experience as a former police officer and Police prosecutor to expertly analyses case files with an insider perspective.

Eric holds a Bachelor of Law (LLB) from Auckland University.

Outside the courtroom, you can find Eric enjoys playing sports, fishing with his friends or spending time with his wife and three daughters.

Barrister

Courtney Andrew

Courtney is a passionate and driven criminal defence lawyer, who approaches each client with care and compassion. Admitted as a barrister and solicitor in 2023, she brings a unique perspective, having previous experience as a Prosecutor for the Auckland Police Prosecution Service.

Courtney approaches every case without judgment, ensuring her clients feel heard and supported while she advocates for the best possible outcome.

Courtney holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Auckland University of Technology.

Outside the courtroom, she enjoys reading, keeping active, and practicing her Spanish—a testament to her love of learning and connecting with people from all walks of life.

What people say

HAMISH

"I would recommend anyone to
work with Eric, as he is not only excellent at his job but also cost-effective."

YINA

"Your attention to detail and ability to anticipate potential obstacles was invaluable in ensuring a successful resolution to my case."

JEREMY

"You have been so easy to deal with, the constant phone calls and texts have been answered

without delay. It's made a pretty average situation bearable."