Michael Wharfe

Partner

Areas of Expertise

Michael’s practice is heavily weighted towards contentious matters for housing associations and public bodies, with a particular focus on large complex disputes in commercial, insurance, engineering and construction matters.

His current workload centres around defects disputes, in particular the fire safety of rainscreen cladding systems on high rise buildings, and claims under latent defects policies.

As a thought leader, Michael publishes extensively on statutory, caselaw and industry developments, and frequently comments for industry publications.

Experience

Before joining Devonshires, Michael worked for US law firm Steptoe & Johnson where he was a senior associate. He has acted in high profile cases including Emerald Supplies v British Airways and Microsoft Mobile OY v Sony Europe and others.

Prior to that, Michael worked as a solicitor in Devonshires Litigation and Dispute Resolution team for three years from 2004-2007.

Education

LL.B., University of Auckland, 1996
B.A., University of Auckland, 1994

Personal

Michael’s personal interests include travel, reading, cricket, rugby, golf, tennis, and fishing.