Best Appeal Lawyers in New Zealand

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Or refine your search by selecting a city:

Govett Quilliam New Plymouth
New Plymouth, New Zealand

Founded in 1876
60 people in their team
English
Govett Quilliam is a full-service law firm based in New Plymouth that provides commercial, property and private client advice across the Taranaki region. Founded in 1876, the firm has a long regional presence and offers specialist capability in sectors such as energy, local government, health and...

English
Based in Christchurch, Streamline Property Conveyancing acts as both conveyancer and real estate attorney for residential and commercial transactions. The firm provides full-service conveyancing including sale and purchase transactions, KiwiSaver withdrawals for property purchases, refinancing...
Land Law Property Lawyer Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 2022
18 people in their team
English
Land Law Property Lawyer Auckland is a New Zealand property law practice focused on streamlined, fixed-fee conveyancing and related real estate matters. Led by Director and Principal Solicitor Grant Cawley, the firm serves clients throughout Auckland and across the country through an online-first...
Zealand Immigration
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2014
English
Zealand Immigration is a trusted law firm in New Zealand, focusing exclusively on immigration and naturalization services. The team brings years of specialized experience as both consultants and immigration attorneys, providing comprehensive solutions for individuals, families, and businesses...

Founded in 1997
English
I R Thompson Associates Ltd is a Christchurch based employment law firm specializing in helping employees and employers navigate workplace law. With more than 40 years of combined experience, the team provides expert guidance on unfair dismissals, personal grievances, and other complex employment...
Bell & Co Lawyers
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
Māori
English
About UsWe are highly experienced lawyers who also give the human touch. We listen to you, we consult and then we offer you the best path forward. To talk with any of the Bell & Co team, simply contact us on 04 499 4014 or send us an email from the contact form below.Bell & Co is a...
Harmans Lawyers
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1888
200 people in their team
Māori
English
Our HistoryServing Canterbury since 1888Harmans’ long association with Canterbury’s legal community began in 1888, when Thomas DeRenzy Harman, the son of Richard Harman, a passenger on one of the First Four Ships, established his own practice.Over the next 100-odd years the firm was known by a...
Wynn Williams
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1859
200 people in their team
Māori
English
Wynn Williams is a full-service law firm, with an impressive team of experienced and talented lawyers delivering results for corporates, businesses, institutions and individuals, here in New Zealand and further afield. For more than 163 years, we've been known for our technical excellence,...
Connect Legal Taranaki
New Plymouth, New Zealand

Founded in 2021
English
Connect Legal Taranaki is a New Zealand law firm based in New Plymouth. The firm was formed in 2021 from the merger of RMY Legal and Billings Lawyers, bringing together decades of regional legal experience to serve individuals and businesses across Taranaki. The practice is recognized for its...
Morrison Mallett
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
About UsWhy Choose Us?We are a specialist commercial law advisory practice. Our goal is to provide top-tier legal advice in a client-focused and cost-effective manner.Our priority is to help you achieve your business objectives.At Morrison Mallett, we are...Proactive - Our team at Morrison Mallett...
AS SEEN ON

About Appeal Law in New Zealand

Appeal law in New Zealand allows eligible individuals or entities to challenge decisions made by courts or tribunals. The appellate process ensures that legal errors made in trial courts can be reviewed and corrected, thus upholding justice. Appeals can be made against judgments in both criminal and civil cases, although the process and grounds for appeal differ between the two. Typically, appeals are heard in higher courts, such as the High Court, the Court of Appeal, or the Supreme Court, depending on the legal matter's complexity and prior judicial history.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several reasons one may require legal assistance regarding appeals:

  • Complex Legal Procedures: Navigating the appellate process involves intricate legal rules and procedural requirements that might be overwhelming for laypersons.
  • Legal Expertise: Lawyers can provide strategic insights and highlight errors in the original trial that could bolster an appeal case.
  • Preparation and Representation: A lawyer can help gather and present evidence, draft appeal documents, and represent you in court.
  • Assessing Viability: Lawyers can assess your case's viability for appeal, saving you time, effort, and potential costs if success appears unlikely.

Local Laws Overview

New Zealand's appeal system is governed by various statues and judicial principles, including:

  • Right to Appeal: Not every decision is automatically eligible for appeal. The right to appeal typically depends on the uniqueness and gravity of the error, whether of legal principle or fact.
  • Appeal Courts Hierarchy: Appeals usually ascend in a hierarchy starting with district courts to the High Court, followed by the Court of Appeal, and finally the Supreme Court as the highest authority.
  • Timeframes: Strict time limits apply for filing appeals. Missing these deadlines can negate the right to appeal.
  • Appeal Grounds: Common grounds include judicial error, wrong application of legal principles, or improper weight given to evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of decisions can be appealed?

Decisions from various courts and tribunals can be appealed based on permitted grounds such as legal errors, procedural mistakes, or improper factual assessments.

How long does the appeal process take?

The duration varies depending on case complexity and which court is involved; it can range from several months to over a year.

What is the first step in filing an appeal?

The first step is usually filing a notice of appeal within the stipulated time limit post-judgment.

Can new evidence be introduced in an appeal?

Generally, appeals focus on prior court records, and new evidence is rarely allowed unless it meets specific exceptional criteria.

Are appeals automatically granted?

No, the appellate court first assesses whether there are grounds to proceed with an appeal through initial hearings.

Do I need a lawyer to file an appeal?

While it's not mandatory, engaging a lawyer is advisable due to the complexities of legal procedures involved.

What happens if an appeal is successful?

If successful, the appellate court may reverse the original decision, order a retrial, or amend the judgment.

How are legal errors identified for an appeal?

Legal errors are identified through a careful review of trial transcripts, evidence presented, and application of relevant law.

Can I appeal more than once?

Multiple appeals are possible, usually progressing to higher courts, provided grounds for further appeal exist.

What costs are involved in an appeal?

Costs include court fees, legal fees, and potentially costs awarded to the other party if the appeal fails.

Additional Resources

For further assistance in appeal matters, consider reaching out to:

  • New Zealand Law Society: Provides information on engaging legal professionals.
  • Ministry of Justice: Offers resources on court processes and rights.
  • Community Law Centres: Deliver free legal advice and guidance.
  • Citizen’s Advice Bureau: Offers information on legal rights and services across New Zealand.

Next Steps

If you believe you have grounds to appeal a court decision, consider the following approaches:

  • Consult with a qualified lawyer for an evaluation of your case's merits.
  • Familiarize yourself with and adhere to the relevant court's appeal procedures and timelines.
  • Gather all necessary documentation related to your case for review and analysis.
  • Prepare financially for potential costs associated with the appeals process.

Seeking legal advice early helps ensure that you understand your rights, possible outcomes, and legal strategies available to you when launching an appeal in New Zealand.

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 Appeal, 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.