I am a Hamilton-based barrister, commercial arbitrator and mediator providing independent dispute resolution and legal advisory services in Hamilton and throughout the Waikato.
I practise from 109 Chambers in Hamilton and am available for in-person work across the Waikato. Suitable mediations, arbitrations, consultations and other engagements may also be conducted online or through a hybrid process. I accept appointments elsewhere in New Zealand and, where appropriate, internationally.
Separate specialist services are available for commercial mediation in Hamilton and throughout the Waikato, arbitration of technology disputes and mediation of technology disputes, including matters involving software, SaaS, data and digital systems.
I have practised law since 2007, with experience in civil dispute resolution, criminal advocacy and complex legal advisory work. I bring legal insight, practical judgement and a calm, independent approach to each engagement. My focus is on helping parties resolve disputes and make informed decisions – whether through mediation, arbitration, independent investigation or strategic legal advice.
Who I work with
I provide services to a broad spectrum of clients, including:
- Commercial organisations and corporate counsel
- Professional services firms
- Boards, executives, and leadership teams
- Government agencies and institutions
- Counsel seeking independent tribunal members or neutral facilitators
My engagements range from short advisory consultations to multi-stage dispute processes. Wherever possible, I tailor the approach to the needs of the parties and the unique context of the issue at hand.
What I offer
My practice brings together dispute resolution, advisory work and litigation across a select range of specialist areas.
Commercial arbitration
Neutral, structured dispute resolution designed to deliver reasoned outcomes without the formality, publicity, or delay of court proceedings. Arbitration can be an effective option where parties want certainty, confidentiality, and finality in their dispute outcomes.
Commercial mediation
Facilitated dialogue to help parties reach a voluntarily-negotiated solution. I work with participants to identify interests, narrow points of dispute, and explore outcomes that are practical and sustainable.
For commercial mediation in Hamilton and throughout the Waikato, see Waikato Mediation.
Independent legal advisory services
Clear, actionable legal opinions and strategic advice for complex issues that require thoughtful analysis and independent judgement. Whether you need risk assessment, problem framing, or prepared legal commentary, I combine rigorous reasoning with practical clarity.
Independent investigations and reviews
Inquiries into sensitive or internal matters where confidentiality, impartiality, and thoroughness are essential. I conduct investigations and provide findings and recommendations you can rely on.
Criminal defence
Ongoing criminal defence practice, including trial and appellate work. While my practice now includes arbitration, mediation, and legal advisory services, criminal defence remains an established part of my work, conducted with discretion, diligence, and a strong commitment to client care.
Based in Hamilton, available across New Zealand
I am available for in-person work in Hamilton and throughout the Waikato. Arbitration and mediation appointments may also be arranged in Auckland, Tauranga and Rotorua.
Suitable arbitrations, mediations, consultations, investigations and advisory engagements can be conducted online throughout New Zealand. International appointments are accepted where appropriate.
Experience that matters
I have practised law since 2007, with a foundation in civil litigation, regulatory proceedings, and trial advocacy. My legal career includes roles as a commercial litigation solicitor, Crown Prosecutor and author of Civil Litigation for Non-Lawyers and A Guide to Criminal Trials in New Zealand.
I hold a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts, and I am admitted to practise before the High Court of New Zealand. I am a member of the New Zealand Bar Association, an associate of the Arbitrators’ and Mediators’ Institute of New Zealand (AMINZ), and I serve on the Waikato Bay of Plenty Branch Council of the New Zealand Law Society.
Trust and clarity
My approach is grounded in ethical clarity, communicative transparency, and a careful focus on the real issues that matter. Whether the task is resolving a commercial dispute, facilitating consensus, providing counsel with a neutral perspective, or investigating complex circumstances, I prioritise outcomes that are durable, understood, and aligned with your objectives.
Enquiries and appointments
To enquire about an arbitration or mediation appointment, independent legal advice, an investigation or criminal defence representation, please contact me.
Email: martin@martindillon.nz
Phone: +64 21 144 0486