Brett Vautier

Partner

I have extensive civil litigation and dispute resolution experience gained in Auckland and overseas (Melbourne and London) law firms as well as in commercial and corporate environments. I have conducted litigation and represented clients in various tribunals, District and High Courts, and the Court of Appeal, as well as actively engaging in mediation, adjudication and arbitration.

I have represented a broad range of individuals and companies, recently involving many in the property sector as well as related areas including finance, insurance and trusts.

In addition to extensive experience in commercial disputes, I also undertake and advise on most aspects of employment law. This includes drafting and reviewing individual employment agreements and Independent Contractor Agreements, advising on employment law issues, assisting with disciplinary and restructuring issues, and resolving personal grievances through negotiation, mediation, the Employment Relations Authority, and Courts.

I have previously spent time as an assistant company solicitor with a major New Zealand based insurance company, and I also worked for two years as Controller of Legal & Business Affairs for a UK film production company.

My experience working in-house has enabled me to appreciate first-hand clients' commercial realities and pressures, and their desire for pragmatic and cost effective advice and solutions. I make an effort to understand the competing priorities and external influences that may be relevant to any advice or action.

By focusing on and understanding clients' needs and by providing strong negotiation skills and effective legal representation in the Courts, I have been able to achieve successful and productive outcomes for my clients. Often, this has meant negotiating settlements either directly or through mediation to avoid the cost, delay, publicity, and uncertainty of trial. It is important to understand what resources are available, which may provide opportunities beyond simple financial solutions.

I was a member of ADLS’s Employment Committee from 2013-2015.

I am an associate of the Resolution Institute.

“Brett is a Partner who does not share liabilities of the partnership”.