Michael Heard - Expert Commercial Litigation Barrister & Mediator

Michael Heard is a recognised expert barrister and mediator with extensive experience across all levels of the New Zealand court system. He specialises in complex commercial litigation, bringing deep expertise to challenging cases involving contract disputes, corporate law, and commercial problem-solving.

His practice encompasses a broad range of commercial matters including class actions, insolvency proceedings, insurance disputes, aviation law, construction litigation, and judicial review applications. Michael regularly provides strategic advice on commercial problems and case conduct, helping clients navigate complex legal challenges with practical solutions.

Michael has been involved in several high-profile cases that demonstrate his expertise at the intersection of traditional commercial law and emerging technologies. His notable cases include MB Technology v Orbis Blockchain Technologies, which involved complex issues of contract law, cryptocurrency, and company law, Strathboss v Attorney-General, a negligence claim concerning state responsibility for border security that relied on genetic evidence, and Minister of Education v Carter Holt Harvey Limited, a significant class action regarding alleged building product defects.