Michael joined Martelli McKegg in 2023. He has over 15 years'
experience litigating complex financial disputes, both in New
Zealand and the United Kingdom.
Michael started his career at a top tier New Zealand commercial
law firm, before spending three years at the London office of a US
litigation firm. He has particular expertise in M&A/investment
disputes, restructuring-related matters, civil fraud and 'soft
IP'. His experience extends across a range of industries, but
in particular Property, Private Equity and Banking/Financial
Services.
In his most recent roles, Michael worked on fixed contracts for
specific complex disputes (in London, assisting on various matters
for the former CEO of a collapsed private equity firm; and, on
returning to New Zealand, defending an IT services provider from a
damages claim in relation to a complex ERP project).
Michael has been instructed on cases at all levels of the New
Zealand Courts, the English High Court, various offshore
jurisdictions (Cayman Islands, BVI and Curacao, in a supervisory
role) and in domestic and international arbitration (ICC, LCIA and
ad hoc). He has appeared as counsel in the New Zealand
District and High Courts and Court of Appeal and in international
arbitration.
While Michael enjoys advocacy, he does his best to keep his
clients out of Court. His experience in this respect includes
acting on internal investigations, due diligence exercises, risk
analysis and contract negotiations.
Recent articles
Viagogo case update: 'Choice of
jurisdiction' clauses in online consumer contracts may be
"unfair contract terms"
How
to deal with Online Banking Mistakes or Cyber Fraud
Memberships
Restructuring, Insolvency and Turnaround Association of New
Zealand (RITANZ)
Arbitrators and Mediators Institute of New Zealand (AMINZ)