Business & Commercial Law
Heavyweight Commercial Advocacy In Christchurch Since 1883
At Weston Ward & Lascelles, we believe legal strategy is the backbone of business success. Led by Director David Houston, our business lawyers provide the heavyweight guidance required to protect your interests. Whether you are launching a startup, navigating a high-stakes acquisition, or resolving a complex commercial dispute, we combine over 140 years of local experience with tactical legal knowledge. With the recent addition of Alex Meyer to our commercial team, we have further strengthened our advocacy and litigation capabilities to ensure your business has the best protection in Canterbury.
Business Law Services
- Commercial Litigation And Disputes
- Business Acquisitions And Sales
- Shareholder Agreements And Governance
- Commercial Leases And Property
- Succession Planning And Exit Strategies
- Terms Of Trade And Asset Protection
Commercial Litigation And Dispute Resolution In Christchurch
Business conflicts require more than just a lawyer; they require a strategist. Our team specialises in resolving complex disputes that threaten your operations and reputation. Under the leadership of David Houston, and with the tactical litigation focus of Alex Meyer, we provide heavyweight advocacy in:
- Shareholder And Director Disputes: Resolving internal conflicts with minimal disruption.
- Contractual Breaches: Enforcing your rights when partners or suppliers fail to deliver.
- Lease Disputes: Protecting your tenancy or your commercial investment.
- Debt Recovery: Tactical legal action to secure your cash flow and protect your bottom line.
Business Acquisitions And Sales
Buying or selling a business is a high-stakes transition. We ensure your due diligence is exhaustive and your Sale and Purchase Agreement is bulletproof. Our established team manages:
- Structure Advice: Choosing the right vehicle for tax efficiency and liability protection.
- Asset Versus Share Sales: Navigating the complexities of business transfers and goodwill.
- Employee And IP Transfer: Ensuring your intellectual property and staff contracts are secure through the transition.
Shareholder Agreements And Governance
A standard agreement is rarely enough when circumstances change. We draft bespoke governance documents that protect your equity and outline clear exit ramps for partners. We specialise in:
- Custom Shareholder Agreements: Addressing funding, decision-making, and dispute resolution.
- Director Duties: Guiding boards through compliance and the requirements of the Companies Act 1993.
- Joint Ventures: Structuring partnerships for clear accountability and profit sharing.
Commercial Leases And Property
Your premises are often your biggest overhead. We advise landlords and tenants across Christchurch on all aspects of commercial leasing:
- Deed Of Lease Agreements: Negotiating terms that favour your long-term stability and business growth.
- Rent Reviews And Renewals: Ensuring fair market outcomes and protecting your rights.
- Sub-leases And Assignments: Managing the legal transfer of space as your business scales or pivots.
Succession And Exit Planning
Every business owner needs an exit strategy. Whether you are passing the torch to family or preparing for a private equity buyout, we ensure your legacy is protected through:
- Strategic Succession Mapping: Identifying the right path for continuity and value retention.
- Management Buy-outs (MBOs): Facilitating smooth internal transitions of ownership.
- Estate Integration: Linking your business success to your personal Trust and Will for total protection.
"We are grateful to have a firm like WWL as part of our advisory team."
(Commercial Client)
Why choose Weston Ward & Lascelles?
140 Years Of Commercial Context
We have navigated every market cycle in Canterbury’s history.
Director-Led Advocacy
Your business matters are handled by senior practitioners, not juniors.
A Growing Powerhouse Team
The combined strengths of David Houston and Alex Meyer offer unmatched commercial depth.
Integrated Asset Protection:
We connect your business law with your personal protection (Trusts and Wills).
Our Process – What to Expect When you Work With us
Initial Strategic Discovery
We listen to your business objectives, understand your industry, and identify immediate legal risks.
Tactical Documentation
Our team prepares high-level, bespoke documentation tailored to your specific commercial goals.
Negotiation And Advocacy
We act as your heavyweight voice in the boardroom, at the mediation table, or in court.
Ongoing Advisory
We remain a permanent part of your professional advisory team as your business grows and evolves.
Recommended Reading
Meet Our Business Law Team
Contact our Business Lawyers
Secure your commercial future in Christchurch. Reach out to David Houston and our experienced business lawyers today for strategic, heavyweight guidance on your next move.
