Highly regarded litigator, Cecil Hanafin, has joined Anthony Harper as a partner in the litigation team.

Hanafin has almost 20 years' experience, including more than a decade at New Zealand law firms and, most recently, five years as a barrister at Canterbury Chambers, one of the leading sets of independent barristers' chambers in the South Island. Her practice spans commercial litigation, insolvency, governance and shareholder disputes, as well as trust and estate litigation and a respected contentious relationship property practice.

Managing Partner Ed Dunphy says that Hanafin's appointment strengthens the firm's commitment to providing top-tier litigation expertise for clients across the country.

“Cecil brings considerable depth and breadth of litigation experience, with a range of expertise that will further strengthen Anthony Harper’s litigation capability in the South Island. Her reputation in contentious relationship property matters, together with her broader litigation experience, will add further depth across the firm and provide additional support to our clients.

"Cecil is also a great fit for Anthony Harper's culture of collaboration, innovation and excellence. We are delighted to welcome her to the firm," Dunphy adds.

Hanafin is based in Anthony Harper's Ōtautahi office and is looking forward to contributing to the team.

"I am excited to be joining Anthony Harper and to be part of a firm with such a strong reputation and collaborative culture. I look forward to working alongside colleagues across the firm, and continuing to work with the independent bar, to provide clients with the benefits of a full-service law firm, together with the right expertise for their particular needs," she says.