Best Divorce & Separation Lawyers in New Zealand

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Lane Neave
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1868
200 people in their team
Māori
English
Lane Neave is committed to solving problems and realising opportunities for our clients.We tap into more than 150 years of experience and provide our hugely talented pool of emerging and current legal experts with the opportunity to make the complex simple.We provide clear, decisive legal advice...
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...
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...
Bush Forbes Barristers & Solicitors
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 1992
6 people in their team
Māori
English
About usBush Forbes is a well established and successful full service law firm located in Tauranga, New Zealand.We pride ourselves on providing personal, experienced legal advice and professional services for yourself, your property or your business. Bush Forbes started in practice over 30...
Foley Douglas
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
50 people in their team
Māori
English
From commercial contracts to purchasing property, asset protection to monetising your intellectual property, our team can provide you with the legal advice you need for life.Collaborative in nature and thoughtful in approach, at Foley Douglas, we think critically, work collaboratively, and deliver...
Tompkins Wake
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 1922
200 people in their team
Māori
English
Our FirmAs a leading New Zealand law firm, we believe in the power of collaboration. We know that when our collective knowledge, specialisation and expertise combine in a collaborative environment, we create exceptional outcomes for our clients.We gain immense satisfaction from working together to...
Harris Tate Lawyers
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 1995
50 people in their team
Māori
English
Originally founded by Ross Harris in 1980 before partnering with Alan Tate in 1995, Harris Tate has become one of Tauranga’s most trusted law firms driven by its passion to provide people with smart , intelligent advice with excellent service.Clients are at the heart of our business. With that in...
Lawhub - Law Firm
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
50 people in their team
Lawhub is a boutique law firm which specialises in immigration, criminal, family, matrimonial, property, employment, and estate law. With offices in Christchurch and Hamilton, our team have been providing quality legal advice since 2017.‍At the heart of everything we do is genuine care for...
Annan Law
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
Need Law Advice in Tauranga or Omokoroa?The law changes continuously. You have the comfort of knowing that we keep up to date with the changes to be able to best provide you with expert professional advice.We are a small law firm specialising in helping individuals and couples with all their legal...
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...
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About Divorce & Separation Law in New Zealand

Divorce and Separation in New Zealand are governed by the Family Court and the Family Proceedings Act 1980. In New Zealand, a marriage can be legally ended through divorce, or couples can choose to separate without going through the divorce process. Divorce and separation can involve issues such as division of property, child custody, and spousal support.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer for divorce and separation in New Zealand if you are facing complex legal issues, need help negotiating a settlement with your spouse, or require representation in court. A lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure that your interests are properly represented throughout the divorce or separation process.

Local Laws Overview

Some key aspects of New Zealand family law that are relevant to divorce and separation include the division of property, child custody arrangements, child support, spousal maintenance, and protection orders. The Family Court plays a significant role in resolving disputes between separating or divorcing couples.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to get a divorce in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, you must be separated for at least two years before you can apply for a divorce. The divorce process typically takes around four to six months to complete.

2. How is property divided in a divorce in New Zealand?

The Family Court will consider all assets and liabilities of both parties and will make a decision on how to divide the property fairly based on each party's contributions to the marriage.

3. How is child custody determined in New Zealand?

The Family Court will prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements. Factors such as the child's relationship with each parent and each parent's ability to provide care will be taken into account.

4. Can I get spousal support after a divorce in New Zealand?

Spousal support, also known as maintenance, may be awarded in certain circumstances where one spouse has financial need and the other has the ability to pay. The amount and duration of spousal support will depend on the individual circumstances of the case.

5. Do I need to go to court for a divorce in New Zealand?

Not necessarily. If both parties agree on the terms of the divorce, you may be able to apply for a divorce without going to court. However, if there are disputes that cannot be resolved, you may need to attend court hearings.

6. Can I change the terms of a divorce settlement after it has been finalized?

In most cases, divorce settlements are final and legally binding. However, under certain circumstances, such as a significant change in circumstances, it may be possible to apply to the court to vary the terms of the settlement.

7. Can I get a divorce if my spouse does not agree?

Yes, it is possible to get a divorce in New Zealand even if your spouse does not agree. You will need to prove to the court that the marriage has irretrievably broken down and make a case for why the divorce should be granted.

8. What is a parenting order in New Zealand?

A parenting order is a court order that sets out the arrangements for the care and upbringing of a child after the parents have separated. It may include details on custody, visitation rights, and other aspects of the child's care.

9. Can I represent myself in court for a divorce or separation case?

While it is possible to represent yourself in court, it is highly recommended to seek legal advice and representation from a qualified lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of a favorable outcome in your case.

10. Are there alternatives to going to court for a divorce or separation in New Zealand?

Yes, there are alternative dispute resolution options available, such as mediation or arbitration, which can help couples reach a settlement without the need for a court trial. These methods can be less costly and time-consuming than going to court.

Additional Resources

For more information and assistance with divorce and separation in New Zealand, you may consider contacting the New Zealand Law Society, the Family Court, or a local community law center. These resources can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process.

Next Steps

If you are considering divorce or separation in New Zealand and need legal advice, it is recommended to schedule a consultation with a qualified family lawyer. They can assess your situation, provide personalized advice, and represent your interests in court if necessary. Remember to gather all relevant documents and information before your appointment to ensure a productive discussion with your lawyer.

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 Divorce & Separation, 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.