They are expected to boost the firm's property, construction, and employment practices
Wotton Kearney has brought in Sam Hider and Ramses Hunt as new hires for its Ōtautahi office.
Hider joins as a senior associate, while Hunt will be an associate with the firm. They are expected to bolster the firm’s property, construction, and employment practices, particularly in the South Island region.
Hider focuses on insurance litigation, especially material damage/business interruption and professional indemnity claims. He has resolved litigated claims against local authorities, geotechnical engineers, structural engineers, mechanical engineers, project managers, building surveyors and architects.
He has also tackled disciplinary complaints on behalf of various professionals. WK partner Caroline Laband described Hider as “a key addition to our team”.
“His experience in navigating complex property damage claims and construction disputes will undoubtedly strengthen our ability to support our clients with the practical and forward-thinking advice they need in this dynamic market”, Laband said.
Hider explained that his decision to focus on insurance was driven by his background.
“I grew up in Christchurch and love living in this city. Working on earthquakes claims has left me with a real interest in the insurance industry and I have since been fortunate enough to work on some fascinating cases ranging from high-value material damage claims to complex professional indemnity matters”, he said.
Meanwhile, Hunt specialises in employment law, with particular expertise in dispute resolution. He has acted for employers and employees before the Employment Relations Authority and in mediations.
“As the city continues the greatest comeback since Stephen Donald, I enjoy helping our local SMEs navigate the complexities of employment law, ensuring they can grow confidently with the city while managing risk effectively”, he said.
WK partner Rebecca Scott said that Hunt’s appointment was “a strategic step in establishing our employment practice in Canterbury”.
“With Ramses’ expertise and understanding of the local market, we can provide more tailored and responsive legal support to Canterbury businesses and individuals”, Scott said.
WK confirmed that there would be further additions to the team in the new year, including a commercial litigation specialist as associate and a graduate set to start in February.
