Specialist DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND CIVIL LITIGATION lawyers

Tim Gunn has been involved in civil litigation and dispute resolution for over ten years.

OUR EXPERTISE - Civil Litigation Lawyer

The term Civil Litigation is used to cover all disputes that fall outside the criminal and family law space. Whilst not an exhaustive list, over the last ten years, we have been involved in the following: 

• Insurance Law Claims

• Contractual Disputes

• Employment Disputes

• Building Defect Claims

• Professional Negligence

• Leaky Building Claims

• Residential Property Disputes

• Shareholder Disputes

• Intellectual Property Disputes

• Estate Claims

• Construction Disputes.

We have appeared in the High Court, District Court, Weathertight Homes Tribunal, Tenancy Tribunal and countless mediations. 

Our Services - Civil Litigation Services

1. Court Representation

I act for clients in a wide range of civil disputes, providing clear and strategic representation at every stage. This includes:

• Representation in the District Court, High Court, Tribunals, and the Employment Relations Authority

• Litigation risk assessments to help you understand the strengths, weaknesses and likely outcomes of your case

• Strategy development before filing or responding, ensuring the most efficient and effective approach is taken

• Evidence review and expert coordination, including engagement with engineers, valuers, medical experts and other specialists where required

Whether your dispute is straightforward or complex, I focus on delivering practical, outcome‑driven representation tailored to your objectives.

2. Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Not every dispute needs to go to court. Many cases can be resolved quickly and cost‑effectively through structured negotiation or mediation.

My ADR services include:

• Settlement negotiation designed to achieve pragmatic outcomes without unnecessary cost

• Private and court‑directed mediation, including preparation, representation and strategy throughout

• Judicial settlement conferences to explore early resolution opportunities

• Independent assessment of strengths, risks and settlement parameters, providing clarity before you commit to further litigation steps

My approach emphasises efficiency, clarity and achieving the right result at the right time.

3. Media Advocacy (Where Appropriate)

Some disputes involve issues of public interest or reputational risk. Where appropriate and lawful, I assist clients in managing external communication and public engagement.

This can include:

• Strategic engagement with journalists in matters attracting public or industry attention

• Reputational risk management during litigation

• Assistance when disputes intersect with public reporting or require careful navigation of the media landscape

Media involvement is never taken lightly, but in the right circumstances it can support accountability, transparency or client protection.

Costs and Litigation Strategy

We understand the true costs of litigation

Civil disputes create financial, personal and organisational pressure. For many clients, uncertainty about cost is as stressful as the dispute itself. I understand these pressures and prioritise cost‑efficient, strategic litigation planning from the outset.

Every matter is approached with a focus on:

• Minimising unnecessary expense

• Narrowing the real issues in dispute

• Using targeted evidence to avoid avoidable hearings

• Avoiding costly procedural missteps

Transparent, predictable guidance

Clients should never be surprised by legal costs. My approach includes:

• Clear upfront advice on likely pathways and cost ranges

• Identifying the most efficient resolution method early — negotiation, mediation or litigation

• Regular, transparent reporting so you always know where you stand

• Strategic decision‑making to avoid cost blowouts

• No hidden fees or unexpected charges

Where possible, we can discuss phased cost options tailored to your goals and risk tolerance.

Focused on value, not volume

Effective civil litigation is not about doing more — it is about doing what matters:

• Narrowing issues

• Eliminating unnecessary steps

• Targeting evidence

• Pursuing early settlement where appropriate

• Litigating firmly and efficiently when required

My goal is to deliver maximum value, not maximum volume.