Join this practical drafting session tailored for junior to intermediate litigators, focusing on three key areas: drafting effective correspondence (what to consider and watch for), structuring strong and effective pleadings (including claims, defenses, counterclaims, and replies), and crafting how to draft written submissions that align with court expectations.

Presenters

Belinda Johns, Barrister, Quay Chambers
Belinda has spent the majority of her legal career specialising in health law, acting primarily for patients and family members in the civil context. She has played a significant role in not only obtaining remedies for clients both within and outside of the ACC system, but also contributing to the development of the law itself in New Zealand. A successful appeal to the Privy Council on the issue of medical negligence has been a career highlight (A v Bottrill). As a result, Belinda brings a unique perspective to Claro. She knows what patients need when things go wrong, and, conversely, what health professionals need to do to avoid legal intervention and to minimise risk. Belinda also has a particular interest in clinical processes, risk management and patient care from a medico-legal point of view. Belinda enjoys working alongside health professionals and specialists, assisting and supporting them with their clinical practices and pre-empting potential issues and resolving any disputes that may arise.


Jessica Phillips, Special Counsel, Tompkins Wake
Jessica is a specialist commercial and regulatory litigator with particular experience in commercial, competition and property disputes. Jessica has acted for clients in a wide range of sectors including education, construction and sports administration, and is skilled in managing large-scale litigation. In addition to regular appearances in the District and High Courts, Jessica is experienced in resolving matters by way of arbitration. Prior to joining Tompkins Wake in 2024, Jessica was a senior associate at a large New Zealand law firm. Her overseas experience includes six years working in London, including at international firms Hausfeld and Clifford Chance.


Tom Pasley, Partner, Robertsons
Tom is an experienced commercial and civil litigator who is regularly involved in the resolution of disputes through litigation, arbitration, mediation, and negotiation. He acts for private clients, insurers, and insureds and provides sound judgement and strategic advice on challenging legal matters. Tom’s practice focuses on contractual disputes, company and securities law, insurance, insolvency, banking and finance, professional negligence, trust disputes, regulatory litigation and investigations, and property disputes. Tom has also acted for clients in several of New Zealand’s largest class actions and is experienced working on large and complex multi-party disputes.