Background

Over a thirty-year career, Ian has appeared at every level of New Zealand's courts and tribunals. His practice is centred on criminal law — both prosecution and defence, at trial and on appeal.

A skilled trial and appellate advocate, Ian is known for his clear, persuasive argument and for the judgment that comes from decades of conducting serious and complex cases under pressure. He is experienced in marshalling complex evidence especially expert forensic evidence in lengthy jury trials, in arguing novel points of law before appellate courts, and in distilling difficult problems into clear, practical written opinions. He moves easily between prosecution and defence, and between trial and appeal — showing his flexibility and skill as an advocate. He brings the same rigour, preparation, and command of detail to every one of his cases. Clients appreciate that he listens to them, that he identifies the issues that truly matter, and that he advises frankly about the prospects of their case.

Alongside his criminal practice, Ian undertakes public and administrative law work, including judicial review and advisory work for government departments. He also has expertise in professional disciplinary proceedings. He is an experienced advocate in the Coroners Court in particular he is acting as Counsel to Assist in the Christchurch Mosque Attacks inquest.

Ian is also recognised for his contribution to the wider profession. He is the author of A Practical Guide to Criminal Procedure (LexisNexis) and Litigation Skills: A Practical Guide to Appellate Advocacy (LexisNexis). He is also a contributing author of Garrow and Turkington's Criminal Law in New Zealand textbook. He is a faculty member of the Litigation Skills course where he helps develop the trial advocacy skills of the next generation of litigators.

Ian delivers pragmatic, cost-effective advice and representation, and can be instructed through an instructing solicitor or directly for legal opinions. Ian joined Harbour Chambers as a barrister sole in 2018.

Qualifications and achievements 

• Author, A Practical Guide to Criminal Procedure (LexisNexis, 2013; 2nd ed. 2016)

• Author, Criminal Procedure title, Laws of New Zealand (2014)

• Author, Litigation Skills: A Practical Guide to Appellate Advocacy (LexisNexis, 2019)

• Contributing author, Garrow and Turkington's Criminal Law in New Zealand (2017–present)

• Deputy Chair of the New Zealand Teachers Disciplinary Tribunal | Te Upoko Tuarua o Te Rōpū Whakaraupapa o Aotearoa (2020–present)

• Faculty member, Litigation Skills course