"Turn him to any cause of policy. /
The Gordian knot of it he will unloose. /
- Shakespeare, Henry V
We specialise in negotiating agreements, resolving disputes, and providing strategic legal opinions across a range of complex matters.
Our model is lean by design — tech-enabled, adaptive, and built to deliver premium service without unnecessary overhead.
We work with commercial clients and private individuals navigating high-stakes legal issues.
Based in Devonport, we serve clients across Auckland and beyond — just 15 minutes from the CBD by ferry. We work remotely or in person, depending on what best serves your needs.
Michael Moughan
Director /
BA LLB
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Michael studied law and philosophy at Victoria University of Wellington on a Premier Scholarship, placing in the top ten nationwide in Scholarship examinations.
He began his legal career at boutique public and commercial law firm Franks Ogilvie, working closely with Stephen Franks (former Chair of Chapman Tripp) and Rob Ogilvie (former General Counsel, Telecom).
After branching out on his own, Michael helped establish a civil litigation practice in Wellington, appearing as counsel in the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. He now acts across a broad range of legal areas and regularly serves as Special Counsel to other law firms on complex or disputed matters.
A pragmatic approach /
Michael combines sharp legal judgment with finely tuned commercial, social, and political instincts. He relates easily to people — understanding where they’re coming from, and where they need to go.
His judgment and EQ weren’t forged behind a desk, but through lived experience — including mistakes, risks, and resilience.
Equally at home on a building site or in a boardroom, Michael brings calm focus to high-stakes matters.
He currently serves as Chair of the Devonport Business Association.
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"You have my commitment that your matter will receive my full attention — and that I will pursue your interests with focus and resolve."
Our Mission /​
Automation, AI, and other tech solutions have commoditised process driven legal work—driving down costs for routine tasks.
What still matters are the skills to tackle law’s “hard problems”: deep technical expertise, sound judgment, and commercial insight.
Our mission is to give you direct, unbundled access to those skills—minus the overhead.
When you engage Gordian Legal, you’re not paying for plush offices or inexperienced juniors.
You get prompt, focused, expert service—providing the strategic edge you need.
