I’m a lawyer that specialises in ICT. In a nutshell, clients get me involved to help them deliver on their important IT and telco projects. This frequently has me rolling up my sleeves and becoming part of the team on a transaction, which is one of the best parts of the job. I thoroughly enjoy getting to the heart of a matter and helping clients navigate the risks and opportunities that are part and parcel of ICT.
My life in ICT started after the general counsel of a large IT supplier lured me into a legal role. Before I knew it I was up to my ears in a fascinating array of IT projects and working with a wide range of IT professionals. I learnt a lot, not just about technology and IT contracting, but about the wider context for these projects and the risks to watch out for. The theme continued when I moved to one of New Zealand’s leading boutique ICT law firms. I was there for around 8 years, which included extended secondments back to my previous employer. I then started van Rij Law, which continues the focus on ICT matters in their various shapes and sizes.
It’s now been over 12 years since I started specialising in ICT and I have enjoyed working on a broad range of projects in the public and private sectors, from implementing critical platforms and rolling out mobile networks through to outsourcing, syndicated procurement and cross-government licensing. The international focus of the work has also been a bonus: it has been great to help clients work with organisations in Europe, USA, Asia-Pacific, China and India.
Beyond the strictly legal, I am often involved in the commercial aspects. In particular, the strong transactional theme in my work has fuelled a deep interest in negotiation that has led me to become a certified negotiation coach. This has provided a unique dimension to my legal work, providing insights into how to build more stable, productive and ethical agreements, the sort of agreements that stick.
Qualifications
Degrees: LLB, BCom
Admitted: 2002
Contact Stuart Van Rij
Van Rij Law
Level 8
23 Waring Taylor Street
PO Box 83-035
Wellington
Email: stuart@vanrijlaw.com
Mobile: 021 224 7282
Website: www.vanrijlaw.com
About Van Rij Law
Van Rij Law is a specialist ICT practice based in Wellington. It brings a tech savvy and strategic approach, with a keen focus on building stable and productive agreements.
Stuart’s areas of practice
Technology law
Contracting and procurement