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Litigation | Lucas and Lucas Lawyers | Dunedin NZ

Civil Litigation


At Lucas & Lucas, we believe in staying close to our cases. That commitment began in 1997, when Chris Lucas joined the firm and we made a strategic shift—from briefing out court work to managing it ourselves.


We made it our policy to understand every case in detail. That meant working closely with clients, getting the facts straight, and ensuring nothing came as a surprise down the line. Over time, we took fuller control: strengthened our research capabilities, preparing cases from start to finish, drafting pleadings, compiling evidence, and shaping strategy with precision and care.
 


Our Approach

Modern litigation is built on a “no surprises” foundation. Everything that will be said in court must now be filed in advance. Written arguments carry enormous weight—many cases are decided based on what’s on the page, long before a hearing begins.
 

That’s why we put so much care into what’s written:

  • Clear, well-structured arguments

  • Accurate and compelling evidence

  • Strategic thinking informed by deep understanding
     

Whether a case settles or goes the full distance, we ensure our clients are well prepared and well represented—on paper and in person.
 

Proven Results in Dispute Resolution

Our service delivery model has been tested many times—and it works. Whether through litigation or negotiation, our clients typically either win or reach favourable settlements.


We act in a wide range of disputes, including:

Commercial & Contractual

  • Breach of contract claims

  • Company and shareholder disputes

  • Director and shareholder rights and obligations

  • Business and consumer disputes

  • Commercial leasing matters

  • Claims under the Property Law Act

  • Insolvency and contribution claims between guarantors

  • Personal Property Securities Act (PPSA) issues
     

Property & Land

  • Sale and purchase disputes

  • Boundary and title issues

  • Easement and covenant disputes

  • Leasing disagreements

  • Public Works Act proceedings
     

Debt & Financial Disputes

  • Debt recovery actions

  • Enforcement proceedings
     

Other Civil Matters

  • Emergency court orders, including injunctions

  • Civil wrongs such as negligence and conversion

  • Mediation and arbitration—supporting parties in negotiated
    outcomes

     

Read our insights

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