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At a Glance
  • Director – Litigation & Insolvency

  • 20+ Years' Experience

  • Specialist in Commercial Disputes & Insolvency Matters

  • Former partner at a boutique corporate and commercial law firm

  • Regularly appears in the High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court

  • Extensive experience in mediation and alternative dispute resolution

  • Trusted advisor to insolvency practitioners, businesses, creditors, and directors

Practice Areas
  • Commercial Litigation

  • Civil Disputes

  • Insolvency and Restructuring

  • Receiverships and Liquidations

  • Shareholder and Partnership Disputes

  • Director Duties and Governance Issues

  • Debt Recovery and Enforcement

  • Urgent Injunctions

  • Property and Construction Disputes

  • Intellectual Property Disputes

  • Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Professional Recognition

James has been recognised by leading legal directories for his expertise, commercial approach, and commitment to client service:

  • Doyle's Guide – Recognised as a Leading Insolvency & Restructuring Lawyer and a Leading Commercial Litigation & Dispute Resolution Lawyer in New Zealand.

  • The Legal 500 – Described as "hard working and maintains strong client relationships" and recommended for his work in dispute resolution and insolvency matters.

  • Chambers & Partners – Recognised as a Ranked Lawyer in the field of Restructuring & Insolvency.

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Meet James Nolen

James Nolen is a highly regarded commercial litigator and insolvency specialist with more than 20 years of experience advising businesses, insolvency practitioners, creditors, directors, and shareholders across New Zealand. As Director of Litigation & Insolvency at Nolen Walters, he leads the firm's civil and commercial litigation practice, delivering strategic legal advice and representation in complex disputes and insolvency matters.

Prior to founding Nolen Walters, James was a partner at a boutique corporate and commercial law firm. He began his legal career at one of New Zealand's leading national law firms, where he developed a strong foundation in commercial dispute resolution and insolvency law.

Known for his pragmatic and commercially focused approach, James combines technical legal expertise with a deep understanding of business and financial issues. Holding degrees in both Law and Management Studies, with a major in Accounting, he is particularly skilled at analysing the financial aspects of commercial disputes and insolvency matters. Clients value his practical advice, strategic thinking, and commitment to achieving effective outcomes.

James has extensive experience acting for receivers, liquidators, trustees, and commercial creditors in both contentious and non-contentious insolvency matters. He regularly advises on shareholder disputes, director duties, debt recovery, enforcement proceedings, and urgent injunctive relief. His broader litigation practice includes property disputes, construction disputes, contractual claims, and intellectual property matters.

An experienced advocate, James appears regularly in the High Court and has also represented clients before the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. He is highly regarded within the legal profession and has developed strong relationships with senior barristers and King's Counsel, frequently acting as instructing solicitor in significant and complex commercial cases.

Supporting You Through Every Important Decision

Our team is passionate about helping businesses, individuals, families and investors navigate important legal decisions with confidence. Combining years of experience with a commitment to exceptional client service, we provide practical advice that is tailored to your unique circumstances.

 

We believe strong relationships are built on trust, clear communication, and genuine care for our clients’ success. Whatever legal challenges or opportunities you face, you can rely on our team to provide knowledgeable guidance and dedicated support every step of the way.

Nolen Walters

Our team is here to assist you with your legal needs. Please reach out with any inquiries or book a consultation.

Phone: +64 9 558 3302

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James Nolen.webp

James Nolen

Director

Litigation & Insolvency

+64 21 881 209

james@nwlaw.co.nz

Specialist litigation and insolvency lawyer with 20+ years' experience. Recognised by Doyle's Guide, The Legal 500, and Chambers & Partners for his expertise in commercial litigation, dispute resolution, and insolvency.

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