Dispute Resolution: The Bar

Richmond Chambers was founded in 2014 with the declared intention of establishing a concentration of expertise particularly well suited to the handling of complex disputes. This compact Auckland set is home to 15 barristers with expertise in a number of specialist areas and experience of civil, commercial and regulatory litigation at all levels.

Julian Miles KC is a veteran practitioner with over 50 years' experience in the disputes space and a widely acknowledged reputation as one of New Zealand's premier litigators, adept at the handling of commercial matters generally, but particularly sought after where intellectual property or defamation issues are concerned. "Julian is unparalleled in media and defamation matters and has a wonderful courtroom manner and style."

Josh McBride stands out for his expertise in the construction, media, real estate and technology spheres. "He is knowledgeable, professional and very easy-going to deal with."

Mark O'Brien KC offers decades of commercial litigation experience, acquired both at the independent Bar and in private practice, and is particularly noted for his handling of significant briefs in the contractual, competition and insolvency fields, and of matters arising from the insurance, oil and gas and technology sectors. "A good choice for a difficult commercial dispute."

Fletcher Pilditch has a practice that spans a range of high-profile criminal and public law litigation. He is particularly proficient in representing corporations and individuals in contentious enforcement proceedings brought forward by leading regulatory bodies. "Fletcher is very, very good. He has a criminal law background and works on high-profile cases."

Garry Williams focuses particularly closely on the frequently overlapping spheres of intellectual property and technology, media and telecommunications-related disputes, and is particularly well regarded for his expertise concerning trade marks.