Dispute Resolution Specialists
Justice should be more accessible to everyone. When ordinary people have extraordinary problems, it can be stressful and overwhelming. We want to help you get the tough stuff sorted.
We will tailor our service to suit you. We can provide legal services at a time and place that suits you; and communicate with you using the most effective means for you.
We have lawyers with experience at the highest level who know the law and know people. We are transparent with fees and will provide you with a high-quality service, on time. We know that good legal advice is about effective communication and understanding your needs and priorities.
We are disputes and litigation specialists, so if you are in a conflict situation, or one is on the horizon, we are able to help. Goodwin Litigation can help you with:
commercial / business disputes
breach of contract
negligence
insolvency
government breaches / judicial review
debt collection; and
insurance disputes.
We act for a range of different clients, from individuals and small businesses to body corporates and large companies.
About me – Sophie Goodwin
I want to work with you for the best result. I will bring my knowledge as a litigation and insurance expert to the legal aspects of the problem. I will bring my experience as a lawyer helping people from all walks of life to work on a strategy and solution that is best for you.
I completed a LLB (hons) and BA at Auckland University in 2008. I worked in two boutique litigation and insurance firms in Auckland during my studies and until my move to Christchurch in 2009. I worked in large firms in Christchurch until I set up Goodwin Litigation in 2018. I have experience in all levels of New Zealand Courts, from the Disputes Tribunal to the Supreme Court.
I am an elected member of the Canterbury Branch Council of the New Zealand Law Society, a position that I have held since 2014.
I practice in the areas of commercial litigation, insurance law and public law. I can assist with commercial / business disputes, breach of contract, negligence claims, insolvency (liquidations and bankruptcy), Government / judicial review, debt collection and insurance issues.
My approach
Every problem is unique and every solution needs to be tailored to the circumstances. I love the problem-solving aspect of dispute resolution. There is no feeling like getting to the right result after sitting down with a client, understanding what they need and implementing an effective strategy to achieve it. Sometimes Court is needed and in those cases I will be a strong advocate for my client and pursue their claim with passion and tenacity.
There are other ways to solve problems and I will use all of the negotiation tools and strategies I have gained to work with you through a mediation, judicial settlement conference or negotiated settlement. When you instruct me, you will get considered, practical advice and a staunch ally. I will listen to you, work with you and help you achieve the best possible outcome.