Commercial Dispute Lawyers & Business Mediation Specialists

Looking to Resolve a Business Dispute? We Can Help You Reach a Win-Win

Business disputes arise for a variety of reasons, often stemming from conflicting interests, misunderstandings, or a significant breach of an agreement.

If not handled correctly, business disputes can have detrimental effects that can go on for months or even years, and cost tens of thousands if not hundreds of thousands of dollars. This is especially true for small businesses, many of which go under due to internal disputes.

This is why it’s crucial to find a speedy resolution that works for both parties.

Our law firm has extensive experience dealing with business disputes, allowing us to provide advice, resolve these conflicts efficiently and protect your business’ interests while minimising risks and fostering stronger partnerships.

Our team is extremely knowledgeable in New Zealand business law, and allows us to consider all possible avenues to reach a resolution.

How We Can Help With Business Dispute Resolution

Contract Disputes

Contracts are the foundation of business relationships, yet disagreements over terms, performance, or breaches can arise. We work to resolve each contract dispute promptly, whether through negotiation or legal action, ensuring your business’s contractual rights are upheld.

Debt Collection & Recovery

Outstanding debts can hinder cash flow and disrupt operations. Our debt collection team provides strategic support to recover unpaid debts effectively, helping your business secure what it’s owed without prolonged financial strain.

Shareholder and Partnership Disputes

Conflicts among shareholders or partners can affect a business’s stability. We mediate and resolve issues related to profit sharing, ownership rights, and exit strategies, promoting fair and constructive solutions that protect your business’s future.

Intellectual Property (IP) Disputes

In today’s market, safeguarding intellectual property is essential. We provide counsel and representation to resolve IP conflicts, from trademark infringements to unauthorised use of proprietary information, securing your valuable assets.

Supply Chain Disputes

When issues with suppliers arise, such as delays or quality concerns, we work to resolve these matters through negotiation or litigation, aiming to keep your business running smoothly.

Construction and Building Disputes

Disputes in construction can stall projects and inflate costs. Our commercial law experts handle conflicts over timelines, costs, and quality standards, helping your project stay on track and within budget.

Commercial Property Disputes

Leasing and property disagreements can create complications for any business. Our team represents you in negotiations or, if needed, in court to achieve fair resolutions for tenant or lease issues.

Insurance Disputes

When claims, denials, or coverage conflicts arise, we provide expertise to clarify your policy rights and pursue fair outcomes, ensuring your business’s protection.

Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

We offer ADR services, including mediation and arbitration, to resolve conflicts outside the courtroom. These methods are efficient, effective, and often less adversarial, providing a smoother path to resolution.

Employment Disputes

From wage disagreements to disputes over dismissals, employment conflicts require careful handling. We guide businesses through these challenges in line with New Zealand employment laws, supporting compliance while protecting your business’s reputation.

Litigation

Litigation involves resolving commercial disputes through court proceedings when other methods cannot reach a resolution. Our experienced litigation team represents businesses in New Zealand, handling complex cases that may arise from contract breaches, shareholder conflicts, and regulatory issues, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.

Regulatory Investigations

When a business is suspected of breaching regulations—whether related to consumer protection, competition law, health and safety, or financial reporting—a regulatory investigation may be initiated. This can lead to disputes if there are allegations of non-compliance, unethical practices, or illegal activities.

Insolvency

Insolvency occurs when a business can no longer meet its financial obligations. Our insolvency lawyers assist with insolvency disputes, guiding companies through debt restructuring, creditor negotiations, and legal compliance to help achieve the best possible outcome for all parties involved.

Liquidation

Liquidation involves winding up a business by selling assets to repay creditors. Our company liquidation lawyers provide legal support for liquidation disputes, including asset distribution, creditor claims, and director responsibilities, ensuring a fair and efficient process to resolve financial matters.

Meet the Commercial Dispute Experts

Sam Yates

Ryan Eathorne

Meet the Commercial Dispute Experts

Sam Yates & Ryan Eathorne

Some of Our Results

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FAQ About Commercial Dispute Resolution

Commercial dispute resolution is the process of resolving conflicts that arise between businesses, such as contract disputes, shareholder disagreements, and debt recovery issues. In New Zealand, this can involve negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation depending on the nature and complexity of the dispute.

If your business is involved in a significant disagreement over contracts, debt recovery, or regulatory compliance, it’s wise to consult a commercial dispute lawyer. They can provide guidance on the best strategies for resolution, protecting your business’s interests and minimizing risks.

Common types of commercial disputes in New Zealand include contract breaches, shareholder conflicts, debt recovery issues, intellectual property disputes, and regulatory compliance problems. These disputes can often impact business operations, finances, and relationships, requiring prompt and effective resolution.

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) offers methods like mediation and arbitration to settle disputes outside of court. ADR is generally quicker and less adversarial than litigation, making it an efficient option for many businesses looking to resolve conflicts amicably.

If a dispute goes to court, it enters a formal litigation process where each party presents its case to a judge, who will issue a binding decision. This process can be complex and lengthy, but a commercial dispute lawyer will guide you through each stage, ensuring your business’s position is well-represented.

Yes, many commercial disputes can be resolved without court intervention through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration. These methods often save time and resources, allowing businesses to reach mutually beneficial agreements while avoiding prolonged litigation.

A “significant breach” refers to a substantial violation of a contract or regulatory standard that can seriously impact the parties involved. In New Zealand, commercial dispute lawyers address significant breaches by seeking remedies through negotiation or, if necessary, legal action to protect their client’s interests.

The duration of commercial dispute resolution varies depending on the complexity of the case and the chosen method of resolution. While negotiation and mediation can be resolved in weeks, litigation may take months or even years, especially for complex cases.

The costs of commercial dispute resolution depend on factors like the dispute’s complexity, the resolution method, and legal representation. Mediation and negotiation tend to be more cost-effective than litigation, but a lawyer can provide guidance on expected costs based on your specific case.

Speak to Us Now!

Involved in a commercial dispute?

Time is of the essence.

Get in touch with our expert team to understand your options and receive the support you need to resolve your dispute effectively.