Most Influential Lawyer addresses how existing law applies to such intangible assets
The controversy around cryptocurrency continues to build with news of scams and businesses failing, but for Lane Neave partner and 2023 Most Influential Lawyer James Cochrane, crypto isn’t something to be feared – and shouldn’t be something to be confused about.
“We don’t have any specific crypto law in New Zealand, but that doesn’t mean the law won’t apply to people using digital assets”, he said. “There are various ways digital assets can touch on different areas of the law, and I find that exciting”.
Cochrane is a strong believer in crypto, as shown in how he has dived into amassing knowledge on Web3, blockchain and digital assets.
“That’s been exciting and rewarding for me; I found something I’m fascinated with and am so interested in, and I felt an obligation to help other lawyers because I believe in the technology”, he said. “A lack of clarity about how the law might apply to market participants utilising digital assets, while it presents an opportunity, also means risk and compliance issues for them. This creates demand and opportunity for professional advisers who really understand the tech”.
Cochrane has earned his distinction as a Changemaker through the active role he plays on the BlockchainNZ executive council as a member, as well as heading up its law and regulations working group. He has also put together a submission to Parliament’s finance and expenditure committee in relation to the enquiry into the current and future nature, impact and risks of cryptocurrencies.
The full list of the 2023 Most Influential Lawyers can be found here.
