Meet David van Hout

David van Hout is a seasoned litigator with over 18 years of experience navigating complex disputes across New Zealand’s highest courts—including the High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court. His career spans both private and public practice, with a particular focus on commercial and construction litigation.

David has been involved in some of New Zealand’s most significant cases, including large-scale product liability disputes in the construction sector and multimillion-dollar claims brought by statutory managers of failed finance companies. His ability to distil complexity and advocate with precision makes him a trusted advisor to clients ranging from major corporates to individuals facing challenging commercial conflicts.

Midway through his career, David relocated to London, where he worked on the multibillion-euro merger of two global coffee giants. It was there—amid endless tastings and sleepless nights—that he developed a deep appreciation (some might say addiction) for a perfectly brewed cup. His immersion in European coffee culture became both a professional asset and a personal obsession.

Upon returning to New Zealand, David joined a boutique construction litigation firm in Auckland, working alongside some of the country’s leading Queen’s Counsel. He later became an associate barrister in chambers, appearing in appellate courts and sharpening his advocacy across a wide range of disputes. In 2019, he partnered with Scott Russell, laying the foundation for what would become Russell van Hout, bringing a shared commitment to direct, commercial, and outcome-driven legal advice.

David is currently pursuing a Master’s in Construction Law at the University of Melbourne, reflecting his passion for continuous learning and his deep engagement with the evolving legal landscape.

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