Best Adoption Lawyers in New Zealand

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KM Law Limited
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 2016
10 people in their team
Māori
English
Trusted Tauranga Legal ServicesYour Local Lawyer for a LifetimeFirst-home buyers, families, parents, employees, company directors and estate executors - we will provide the same high standard of care for you and your family through all stages of life. KM Law provide upfront fees and dependable,...
Wakefields Lawyers
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 1999
50 people in their team
Māori
English
Wakefields Lawyers is now an over 25 person strong team, thriving in five locations - Wellington, Paraparaumu, Otaki, Levin, and Foxton. This makes our highly experienced team tremendously flexible with where we’re able to meet our clients, bringing quality legal advice to your local...
Mackenzie Elvin Law
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 1980
50 people in their team
Mackenzie Elvin Law is a progressive Tauranga law firm operating across the wider Bay of Plenty.The foundation of Mackenzie Elvin Law is based in a down-to-earth, and family-friendly approach.In the early 80s, Fiona Mackenzie founded the firm with one thing in mind - to work with local families and...
Prime Legal Ltd
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
Prime Legal Ltd is an established family friendly law firm. Our team is made up of 4 lawyers, a senior legal executive - not forgetting the office pooches, Olaf and Josie.Our team has a wide skill base so we can cater for your legal needs from cradle to grave. Our legal team are experienced and...
Saunders & Co Lawyers
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1922
200 people in their team
Māori
English
SAUNDERS & CO IS A FIRM OF CHRISTCHURCH LAWYERS EXPERIENCED IN COMMERCIAL AND CORPORATE MATTERS, INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY, LITIGATION, IMMIGRATION, FAMILY, CRIMINAL , TAX, RESOURCE MANGEMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAW.Our Christchurch law firm office is divided into teams.The...
Rainey Collins Lawyers
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 1919
50 people in their team
Māori
English
Our FirmSee and hear about how we look after our clients and delight them with our service, as we celebrate our 100th anniversary. A captioned video is also available below.Current PositionThis three partner, thirteen lawyer firm is organised into three broad teams supervised by the partners. ...
Burley Castle Hawkins Law Limited
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 2020
10 people in their team
Māori
English
Legal ServicesWhether its legal expertise covering Company & Commercial Law, Employment Law, Civil Litigation (including disputes), Family & Relationship Property Law, Conveyancing, Trusts or Wills & Powers of Attorney, we've got your back. The BCH Law team is dedicated to providing a...
O'Sheas Law
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 1908
50 people in their team
Māori
English
About usO’Sheas Law is a modern and energetic practice bringing together a team of respected legal practitioners who have provided legal expertise and practical advice to Hamilton and the greater Waikato region for many years.The firm has a wealth of local knowledge and strong relationships...
Norris Ward McKinnon
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 1919
200 people in their team
Māori
English
How NWMwas foundedHensleigh Carthew (Car) Marryat Norris (1880-1993) began practicing in 1919 after returning from WWI. Norris Ward McKinnon as it's known today, has been operating in Hamilton ever since.Car had an extensive and honoured career. During WWII, Car was a captain and served in the Home...
Weston Ward & Lascelles
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1883
50 people in their team
Māori
English
You receive quality and practical advice from a highly experienced legal team. We deliver an exquisite service at the most cost-effective price. Weston Ward & Lascelles has been providing quality legal advice since 1883. We are medium sized Christchurch law firm with a team of highly...
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About Adoption Law in New Zealand

Adoption in New Zealand is a legal process that allows a child to become a permanent member of a new family. It involves transferring all rights and responsibilities from the birth parents to the adoptive parents. Adoption is governed by the Adoption Act 1955 and the Oranga Tamariki Act 1989 in New Zealand.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer for adoption in New Zealand if you are facing legal challenges such as navigating the adoption process, understanding your rights and responsibilities, handling legal documents, or resolving disputes. A lawyer can provide guidance, representation, and ensure that the adoption process is in compliance with the law.

Local Laws Overview

Some key aspects of local laws related to adoption in New Zealand include eligibility requirements for adoptive parents, consent of birth parents, adoption orders, and post-adoption contact agreements. The Family Court of New Zealand oversees adoptions and ensures that they are in the best interests of the child.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the eligibility requirements for adoptive parents in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, adoptive parents must be at least 25 years old and have been living in New Zealand for at least 1 year.

2. How can I apply for adoption in New Zealand?

You can apply for adoption through the Family Court of New Zealand or through an accredited adoption agency.

3. Do birth parents have to consent to the adoption?

Yes, birth parents must consent to the adoption unless their consent is dispensed with by the court.

4. What is an adoption order?

An adoption order is a court order that legally transfers parental rights and responsibilities from the birth parents to the adoptive parents.

5. Can I have contact with my child after they are adopted?

You can arrange for post-adoption contact agreements with the adoptive parents to maintain contact with your child after the adoption.

6. Can I adopt a child from overseas in New Zealand?

Yes, you can adopt a child from overseas in New Zealand, but the adoption must meet the requirements of the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption.

7. What support services are available for adoptive parents in New Zealand?

Adoptive parents can access support services such as counseling, support groups, and resources from Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children.

8. Can same-sex couples adopt in New Zealand?

Yes, same-sex couples have the same rights to adopt in New Zealand as opposite-sex couples.

9. Is open adoption allowed in New Zealand?

Open adoption, where birth parents and adoptive parents have ongoing contact, is becoming more common in New Zealand but is not yet well established in law.

10. How long does the adoption process take in New Zealand?

The adoption process can vary depending on individual circumstances, but it typically takes around 6 to 12 months from the initial application to the finalization of the adoption order.

Additional Resources

For more information on adoption in New Zealand and legal assistance, you can contact Oranga Tamariki - Ministry for Children or seek guidance from a family law attorney specializing in adoption cases.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance for adoption in New Zealand, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer who can guide you through the process, ensure your rights are protected, and represent you in court if necessary. You can start by researching experienced adoption lawyers in your area and scheduling a consultation to discuss your case.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in New Zealand through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Adoption, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in New Zealand - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.