Ben is a highly experienced criminal lawyer with a distinguished legal career. He began his practice at the Public Defence Service and later prosecuted serious crimes on behalf of the Crown in Auckland and Manukau. His expertise includes defending cases involving serious assault, drug offences, fraud, sexual crimes, and regulatory crimes.
Ben is known for his strategic legal approach, skilled advocacy, and effective negotiation. He is committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for his clients, regardless of the charges they face. His trusted reputation is built on professionalism, discretion, and a results-driven approach. He also collaborates with a network of expert specialists to reinforce his clients’ defence.
He has acted as lead, sole, or junior counsel in several trials involving manslaughter, serious violence, and sexual offences. His experience extends to appellate advocacy before the High Court and Court of Appeal.
Ben accepts private instructions and is a certified PAL 3 Legal Aid provider. He prioritises confidentiality and trust while guiding clients through the complexities of the legal process.
In addition to his legal expertise, Ben is fluent in English, French, Swahili and Lingala, enabling him to serve a diverse range of clients effectively.
Bachelor of Laws, Auckland University of Technology
Bachelor of Arts (majoring in criminology and conflicts resolution), Auckland University of Technology
Admitted as a barrister and solicitor in New Zealand (2017)
Admitted as a solicitor in Victoria, Australia (2022)
The Power of Narratives: The African Union’s Bid to Develop an Alternative International Criminal Law Narrative, in Morten Bergsmo et al. (editors), Power in International Criminal Justice, Torkel Opsahl Academic EPublisher, Brussels, 2020 — the co-authored book chapter can be downloaded here.
Facing criminal charges can be a challenging and deeply personal experience. Ben provides strong legal representation tailored to each client’s unique situation. To build a compelling defense, he collaborates with a network of trusted professionals, including, private investigators, medical specialists, fingerprint experts, forensic accountants, psychologists, CCTV analysts, and computer forensic specialists. This comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of your case is thoroughly examined to achieve the best possible outcome.
Sexual violation by rape, Unlawful sexual connection, Possessing/distributing/making objectionable material/child pornography, Historic sexual offences
Money laundering, Aggravated burglary, Obtaining by deception, Theft (all types)
Worksafe, Department of Internal Affairs, Maritime New Zealand, Department of internal Affairs, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment
Lawyers and Conveyancers Disciplinary Tribunals, Real Estate Authority, Health Practitioners, New Zealand Teachers Disciplinary Tribunal
Murder or manslaughter, Threatening to kill or cause serious harm, Aggravated robbery, Assault, including against a person in a family relationship or a child , Breach of protection order, Kidnapping, Threatening behaviour
Careless driving causing injury/death, Drinking and driving with excess blood alcohol, Dangerous driving, Driving under the influence, Careless or reckless driving, Failing to stop, Driving without a license, Driving while disqualified, Limited license applications, Section 94 applications
Manufacturing, possessing and supplying (or dealing) methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, ecstasy (MDMA), cannabis, GBL, and other illegal substances.
Importation of all type of controlled drugs into New Zealand.
Cultivation of cannabis,
Organised crimes
Offering legal support for individuals fearing return to their country, representing refugee and protected status applicants in New Zealand, appearing before the Refugee Status Unit and Immigration Tribunal, appealing deportations, and assisting with section 61 requests.
Schedule an appointment with Ben to discuss your case. Whether you need immediate legal representation or advice, Ben is available to provide expert guidance.