Charlene is a seasoned litigator with extensive experience in latent building defect litigation, including weathertightness claims.  She has acted in complex litigation involving novel claims for structural and fire defects.

Specialist areas:

• Civil litigation
• Local government and public law

Charlene has represented the full spectrum of parties involved in the construction of residential and commercial buildings—owners,  contractors, professionals, manufacturers and suppliers of building products, and local government bodies, including Auckland Council.  She regularly appears in the District Court and the High Court, and has also appeared in the Court of Appeal.  Complementing her courtroom advocacy with expertise in alternative dispute resolution processes such as negotiation, mediation, and judicial settlement conferences.  Charlene’s approach to resolving disputes is client-centric, strategic, and commercial.  She is known for her ability to work collaboratively with clients, taking the time to understand their business deeply and using that insight to tailor advice and pursue outcomes that align with their objectives.

A master of detail, Charlene excels at absorbing and analysing complex and competing legal and factual material.  She is a practical thinker and strategic adviser, highly skilled in addressing both substantive and procedural issues.

Prior to joining Rice Speir, Charlene practised at top-tier law firms, gaining a diverse range of legal experience in commercial settings.   She has been a contributing author to Laws of New Zealand, Building and Construction, Weathertight Homes Resolution Services Act 2006, and to Building Law in New Zealand.

Qualifications:

• LLM(Hons), University of Waikato