Edward Cox

Edward Cox leads Gibson Sheat’s Litigation Team and serves as the firm’s Risk Management Partner. With nearly 30 years of experience, he acts in disputes where the pressure is high and the outcome matters.

Edward represents individuals, professionals, business owners, finance companies and transport operators in complex civil and commercial litigation, arbitration and mediation. His work spans contract and property disputes, finance and insolvency, regulatory defence, defamation, estate claims and reputation protection. Clients turn to Edward when experience, speed and sound judgment are essential, particularly when a dispute threatens their business, reputation or financial future.

One of New Zealand’s most experienced legal advisers in the road transport industry, Edward has built a career advising on operator liability, compliance and legislative change. He has contributed to law reform projects, including proposed amendments to the Land Transport Management Act and Road User Charges regime. His expertise includes the “Chain of Responsibility” safety framework, the “fit and proper person” licensing test and the limits of enforcement powers available to Police and regulators. He defends operators and drivers in prosecutions, supports industry groups through governance and restructuring issues and represents families at coronial inquests following serious or fatal incidents.

In court, Edward is highly strategic, using court process as a tool to secure interim relief, resist regulatory action, or drive early, favourable settlement. He was a lead adviser in the Rena grounding litigation, one of New Zealand’s most complex maritime and environmental cases.

Edward also advises on health and safety matters, including defending directors and businesses charged under the Health and Safety at Work Act. He supports clients from the outset gathering evidence, briefing experts, negotiating undertakings and preparing for trial. He is also experienced in competition law and regularly assists clients with Commerce Commission investigations and collaborative arrangements under the Commerce Act.

Edward joined Gibson Sheat in 1997 and became a partner in 2002.

Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family and staying active outdoors, sailing, tramping, mountain biking or skiing whenever he gets the chance.