Michael Thornton: Construction Litigation & Commercial Disputes

Michael Thornton, Barrister and Solicitor, is a specialist litigation firm based in Auckland's CBD with extensive experience in commercial litigation. The firm has particular expertise in building and construction disputes, with a focus on leaky building litigation since the mid-1990s. Since 2005, the team has acted for numerous homeowners and bodies corporate in securing compensation from liable parties to repair their leaky houses, apartments and units, whilst also defending claims against developers, architects, builders, and other tradespeople.

The firm's core practice areas encompass construction litigation under the Construction Contracts Act, landlord and tenant law, and insurance litigation, particularly liability and professional indemnity claims. With over 25 years of commercial litigation experience, the team routinely appears at the Weathertight Homes Tribunal and courts, and has extensive experience in alternative dispute resolution through mediations and settlement conferences.

Michael Thornton and his team provide comprehensive legal services across general commercial litigation, having resolved contract and negligence disputes involving diverse subject matter from ocean-going yachts to real estate transactions. The firm's emphasis is on achieving cost-effective outcomes that meet clients' specific needs, with a strong focus on alternative dispute resolution processes to help clients negotiate settlements outside the courtroom where possible.