Best Adoption Lawyers in New Zealand

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Corcoran French Lawyers
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1892
50 people in their team
Māori
English
We are large enough to service your legal needs at every turn, but small enough to know you.  Corcoran French is your legal firm for life.We’re big enough that we have our finger on the pulse of legal policies and regulations. At the same time, we are small enough to stay accessible, provide...
Duncan Cotterill
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1857
500 people in their team
Māori
English
Duncan Cotterill has grown to become one of the leading law firms in New Zealand. We have achieved this because as a firm we are very clear about where we are heading and what we want to achieve. We have a strong set of values and we are totally committed to working alongside our clients to help...
Gul Law
Auckland, New Zealand

1 people in their team
English
Gul Law is a New Zealand barrister practice led by Farrukh Gul Qaisrani. As a former New Zealand Police public prosecutor with more than 13 years' experience representing the police and various government departments, the practice leverages prosecutorial insight to develop robust defence strategies...
Brook Law
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
About Brook LawWe are a Hamilton based Law Firm located at the Northern End of the Central Business District where easy parking is available.We have over 40 years experience in providing quality advice and service for our clients.Serving Clients throughout North IslandOur firm has a client base...
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...
Sapling Lawyers
Hamilton, New Zealand

6 people in their team
English
Sapling Lawyers is a boutique New Zealand law firm based in Hamilton with branches in Australia and New Zealand. The firm specialises in property and immigration work while also advising on family and commercial matters, and is led by Principal Lawyer Aman Jaggi, who brings experience in property...
Turner Hopkins
Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 1923
50 people in their team
Māori
English
Welcome to Turner HopkinsBARRISTERS, SOLICITORS & NOTARY PUBLICTurner Hopkins is a well-respected and trusted multi-service law firm located on the North Shore in Auckland. We first opened our doors in 1923, and with almost 100 years of experience, we pride ourselves on being able to provide a...
O'Malleys Lawyers
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
Māori
English
Fees / Sample Terms of EngagementOur lawyers may charge an hourly rate or a fixed fee, dependent upon such factors (among others) as their level of experience, the nature of the work undertaken and the level of complexity of the matter. Where appropriate, applications for Legal Aid can be made....
Advent Ark Lawyers
Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 2020
9 people in their team
English
Advent Ark Lawyers is a New Zealand law firm based in Auckland that specialises in immigration, property, commercial, family, employment and litigation matters. The firm positions itself as a multi-lingual practice with a focus on serving migrant communities and local clients who require specialist...
Baywide Community Law Service
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 1988
50 people in their team
Māori
English
About usBaywide Community Law supports our community by enabling access to free legal services for people living along the Bay of Plenty coast, from Waihi to Te Kaha.We offer free legal information to everyone, and one-on-one legal advice to people on low incomes, with disabilities or other...
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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.