Qualifications
LLB (Hons, First Class); BA, Victoria University of Wellington
Admitted
2022, New Zealand
James O'Donovan has a broad range of experience in both litigation and climate change advisory matters.
James advises a number of clients on corporate and commercial disputes with a particular focus on climate and sustainability-related litigation. James is also a key member of Chapman Tripp's climate practice, advising on climate-risk management and disclosures.
Recent highlights
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Acting for Fonterra on climate change-related tort claims filed against multiple New Zealand defendants.
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Acting for a major New Zealand company on a claim brought under the Fair Trading Act.
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Acted, pro bono, for the Arbitrators' and Mediators' Institute of New Zealand in the Court of Appeal on an intervention related to treatment of alternative dispute resolution in abuse in state care proceedings.
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Advising a range of New Zealand companies on market expectations and risk mitigation in relation to emissions reduction targets, net zero goals and transition planning.
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Advising a range of clients on climate-related disclosures, including working with listed issuers, insurers and financial institutions to prepare for voluntary and mandatory disclosures.
