Fitzgerald graduated with an LLB (Senior Scholar) from Victoria University of Wellington in 1992 and was admitted to the New Zealand bar in the same year.
She began her legal career at the Wellington office of Russell McVeagh in 1992.
She later gained international experience in London, where she was admitted as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales in 1999.
[2] Fitzgerald's appointment is expected to bring continuity and stability to the High Court, given her extensive experience in both legal practice and judicial roles.
She has a reputation for diligence and fairness, qualities essential for effective leadership in the judiciary.