Luke Cunningham & Clere - Specialist Litigation & Public Law Firm

Luke Cunningham Clere is one of New Zealand's largest and most experienced specialist litigation firms, serving as the office of the Wellington Crown Solicitor since 1936. The firm specialises in complex criminal enforcement, civil litigation, precedent-setting public law, and human rights issues, partnering with clients throughout Aotearoa New Zealand to deliver clarity, direction, and results. They are acutely attuned to the particular requirements of public sector clients and act with public service values in mind at all times.

The firm's expert litigators appear in court as advocates on a regular basis, with lawyers who have developed exceptional advocacy skills across a broad range of areas. As an approved panel provider under the All-of-Government external legal services contract, they provide litigation, public law, and other external legal services to departments, agencies, and organisations across the state sector. Their services span criminal and regulatory enforcement, civil and commercial litigation, professional discipline, public law litigation, environmental and climate change law, Treaty of Waitangi matters, local government advice, and coronial work.

While public sector clients form the core of their business, Luke Cunningham Clere also works with private sector clients who value their principled approach. The firm is structured to provide excellent legal services in a cost-effective way, attracting and retaining exceptional lawyers who choose to develop their advocacy skills with the firm. They embrace the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Te Ao Māori, are net carbon zero certified by Toitū Environcare, and launched their pro-bono practice in 2022 to support community organisations and those in need.