Sam front

Qualifications

LLB (Otago)

BCom (Lincoln)

Alternative contact

Jess front

Jess Craighead

Sam has a special interest in construction and insurance disputes.

Sam believes that no two matters are the same and a careful and considered approach is required in each case. He enjoys building relationships with his clients and working with them to resolve any problems they may be facing.

Sam has extensive experience acting for construction companies, developers, and building owners in a variety of construction disputes, including leaky building, breach of contract and defective building work claims. He has acted for and against professionals in respect of professional negligence claims. Sam also has experience working in insurance litigation including advising clients on policy interpretation and challenging declined claims.

"I partner with my clients to find solutions which work best for them and their particular circumstances."


Sam has appeared in the Maori Land Court, District Court, High Court and as junior counsel in the Court of Appeal. He is also a member of the NZ Insurance Law Association and the NZ Society of Construction Law.

Sam Cowan promotion to Principal 2023

Sam Cowan was promoted to Principal in January 2023. We are proud to have Sam join the Cavell Leitch leadership.

Read about Sam's promotion

Recent work

  • Represented construction companies and building owners in arbitrations, adjudications, and court proceedings.
  • Represented professionals in disciplinary proceedings.
  • Advised District and Regional Councils in relation to rates and insurance matters.

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Documents

Company creditors and claw-back

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An Update for Southern Response Compensation Claims

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