Disputes Resolution Role, Nelson

Graduate Litigation/Dispute Resolution Solicitor.  Full-time, Nelson based.

• The best of both worlds; lifestyle & excellent career opportunity
• Enjoy a variety of interesting work and top-quality mentoring
• Competitive salary

Fletcher Vautier Moore (FVM) is one of the largest, most long-standing and most respected firms in the top of the South, Te Tau Ihu.  In operation for almost 75 years, today FVM is a progressive, 6-partner law firm, with gender-diverse leadership and over 35 staff.  We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment where professional growth is encouraged and client relationships are built on trust and expertise.

FVM’s modern offices in the heart of the Nelson central business district complement its other growing offices in nearby Richmond, Motueka and Takaka.  Technology, flexible work arrangements and firm friendships link all of our offices. Our team members value their fantastic lifestyles in New Zealand’s sunniest place, as well as punching above their weight by handling top-quality legal work for a variety of corporates, local government entities, quasi-government entities, interest groups, businesses and individuals.  

We are seeking a Graduate Litigation Solicitor to join our dispute resolution and civil litigation team.  This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual to develop their career in contentious civil litigation matters, including in the following areas:  ACC/medico-legal, contested estates, contractual disputes, employment, property and construction disputes and debt recovery. You may have the opportunity to support other teams within the firm with contentious aspects, including resource management, estates, property and local government.  You will be given exposure to a wide variety of cases and files, working closely with an experienced partner and other solicitors in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Your work will primarily include assisting at client meetings, researching legal principles, drafting legal advice, analysing documentation, corresponding with clients and others, liaising with experts, drafting court documents including pleadings, affidavits, memoranda of Counsel and submissions, corresponding with clients and others, assisting with negotiation of disputes, drafting settlement agreements, assisting in Court, mediations and judicial settlement conferences  and, once comfortable, appearing in appropriate cases yourself. Your key responsibilities will include assisting with managing and coordinating complex cases and legal strategies, maintain excellent relationships with clients, colleagues, and third parties and keeping up to date with changes in relevant law.

We are seeking a Graduate Lawyer (or soon to graduate). You will have excellent written and verbal communication skills, a sharp mind, a high level of attention to detail but also the ability to draw high level conclusions, an ability to work autonomously as well as part of a team, top organisational skills and a proactive, client-focused attitude.

This is a full-time role based in Nelson with a competitive salary package.

Seize this opportunity to work in one of New Zealand’s most popular destinations, famous for its beautiful weather, stunning beaches, vibrant markets, top notch food, great mountain bike trails and the scenic Abel Tasman National Park, with Wellington only a 20 minute flight away.

Applications close 18th July 2025.  Start date – mid August 2025.  You will need to be a NZ resident or have a NZ work permit for this role. You must be admitted to the New Zealand High Court (or be shortly eligible to be).

Please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and why you’d be a great fit for our team to the recruitment team at applications@fvm.co.nz

Sign InRegister

Re