Commercial Litigation Lawyer | Associate to Senior Associate

Are you a litigation lawyer looking for high-quality work, direct client contact and the opportunity to develop specialist expertise in intellectual property and technology law? James & Wells is looking for a talented lawyer to join our Litigation & Commercial team based in Auckland or Hamilton . We're open to hearing from the right candidates ranging from approximately 1 year PQE through to Senior Associate level. Whether you're an emerging litigator looking to build your expertise or an experienced lawyer seeking a new challenge, you'll work alongside some of New Zealand’s best intellectual property litigators, advising innovative New Zealand and international clients across a diverse range of disputes and strategic advisory matters. No prior intellectual property experience is required if you the right attitude, judgement and willingness to learn. If you: have strong litigation fundamentals, good commercial judgement, good communication skills, and a desire to learn and enjoy working as part of a strong team; value flexible working arrangements, an exceptional client base, and a low-ego, collaborative culture where good ideas are heard at every level; then we'd love to hear from you. About the role This role offers exposure to a broad range of matters including: Commercial disputes and litigation Intellectual property disputes and enforcement Trade mark and brand protection matters Technology and innovation-related disputes Strategic commercial advice Alternative dispute resolution and settlement negotiations You’ll work directly with clients ranging from start-ups and emerging businesses through to established national and multinational organisations. As part of a collaborative trans‑Tasman team, you’ll have opportunities to work with colleagues and clients throughout New Zealand and Australia while developing specialist expertise in a growing and highly relevant area of law. What we are looking for As well as being qualified to practise law in New Zealand, you may also: Have experience in litigation, dispute resolution or contentious commercial matters Be able to provide practical and commercially focused legal advice Have strong drafting, negotiation, analytical, and problem‑solving skills Have excellent verbal and written communication skills Demonstrate sound judgement, initiative, and attention to detail Be organised and capable of managing multiple priorities and deadlines Build strong relationships with clients and colleagues Be positive, proactive, and committed to delivering exceptional client outcomes Have experience in intellectual property, trade marks, brand protection, or related commercial matters such as advising on advertising or marketing, or drafting commercial agreements (preferred but not essential) Who we are and why work for us? We’ve been in business for almost 50 years and were founded on an ethos of providing timely, cost-effective, practical and definitive advice in language our clients can understand. Our people and culture have redfined what it means to be an IP services firm. It's about creating a workplace where you can be inspired and be inspiring. We value collegiality, openness, and a sense of humour, and welcome applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds. We hold ourselves proudly to our values of being Easy to Work With, One Team, Champions, and demonstrating Professional Excellence. We offer a quality-driven environment with a relaxed, supportive, and positive culture where you can grow and feel a sense of belonging. Our success as a firm is based on our culture of working well together to create the best results for our clients. If you want a workplace with flexible working arrangements, an exceptional client base, approachable senior lawyers, a genuine voice for all levels, and an outstanding culture, then we’re it. What we can offer you When you join James & Wells, you can expect: High-quality litigation, commercial, and intellectual property work for innovative New Zealand and international clients Mentoring and support from recognised leaders in the profession Genuine opportunities for career progression and ongoing professional development A supportive and collegial culture, with flexible working, wellbeing initiatives, and regular social events. Only people with the right to work in New Zealand may apply for this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr