Lane Neave has strengthened its reputation in the Asia-Pacific legal market, earning recognition in two new practice areas in the prestigious 2026 Legal 500 Guide.
The newcomers are Restructuring and Insolvency – led by Partners James Cochrane, Ben Russell, Evelyn Jones and Lynne Van – and Investment Funds – led by Partners Andrew Comer and Carlo Wan.
They join five legal practice areas that have retained their long-term rankings:
- Banking and Financial Services
- Corporate, and Mergers and Acquisitions
- Dispute Resolution
- Labour and Employment
- Projects and resources management (including environment)
Individual accolades
Managing Partner Andrew Shaw and Partner Evelyn Jones have once again been named Leading Partners in their respective fields of Labour and Employment Law, and Banking and Financial Services Law. This accolade positions them as leaders in their practice areas – heading market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Meanwhile, new Auckland Partner Lynne Van has been recognised as a Next Generation Partner in the practice area of Restructuring and Insolvency.
Individual practitioners recognised for their expertise
- Labour and Employment – Andrew Shaw (Leading Partner); Fiona McMillan, Andy Bell and Joseph Harrop (Recommended Lawyers).
- Banking and Finance – Evelyn Jones (Leading Partner).
- Corporate, and Mergers and Acquisitions – Andrew Comer, Ellen Sewell, Carlo Wan, Alex Stone and Graeme Crombie (Recommended Lawyers).
- Dispute Resolution – Ben Russell, Mike King, James Cochrane and Lynne Van (Recommended Lawyers).
- Projects and Resources Management (including environment) – Joshua Leckie, Ellen Sewell, Ashley Taggart and Sarah Anderton (Recommended Lawyers).
- NEW: Investment funds – Andrew Comer, Carlo Wan, Evelyn Jones and Mark Williams (Recommended Lawyers).
- NEW: Restructuring and insolvency – James Cochrane, Ben Russell and Evelyn Jones (Recommended Lawyers); Lynne Van (Next Generation Partner).
Andrew Shaw says Lane Neave’s inclusion in the Legal 500 Asia-Pacific Guide underscores the collective bench strength and dedication offered by everyone at the firm.
“We are proud to be recognised for our expertise and our commitment to delivering outstanding results for our clients and look forward to building on this success and continuing to set the standard for legal excellence.
“The expansion into new rankings highlights our ability to adapt and excel in the dynamic legal landscape. Our teams in Restructuring and Insolvency, and Investment Funds, have demonstrated exceptional skill in navigating complex matters and supporting clients through challenging scenarios.”
Legal 500’s research is entirely independent, focusing on expertise, client feedback, and market strength.
- Read more about Legal 500 rankings here.
