Best Estate Planning Lawyers in New Zealand

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Lyon O'Neale Arnold

Lyon O'Neale Arnold

Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Legal AdviceAre you looking for a down-to-earth, approachable legal team you can trust to take care of all your legal needs? Then look no further....
Māori
English
Prime Legal Ltd

Prime Legal Ltd

Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
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...
Māori
English
Convey Law

Convey Law

Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
We Are Expert Property / Real Estate Lawyers.Convey Law – Online Property LawyersConvey Law is the online conveyancing division of LAW.NZ Lawyers....
Māori
English
Mackenzie Elvin Law

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...
Turner Hopkins

Turner Hopkins

Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 1923
50 people in their team
Welcome to Turner HopkinsBARRISTERS, SOLICITORS & NOTARY PUBLICTurner Hopkins is a well-respected and trusted multi-service law firm located on...
Māori
English
Keam Standen

Keam Standen

Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 1987
50 people in their team
Keam Standen Limited (formerly Keam & Associates and Keam Standen) was established in 1987 and has been serving the people of the Tauranga, the...
Māori
English
Michael Hunwick Lawyer

Michael Hunwick Lawyer

Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2012
50 people in their team
Michael has been practicing law in Hamilton since 1985, earning him a dedicated client base over this period. His ability to communicate effectively...
Māori
English
Davenports Law

Davenports Law

Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 1920
50 people in their team
Our skilled team are dedicated to providing professional, crafted legal advice, for peace of mind.Every client is unique. We focus on individual...
Māori
English
Convex Legal

Convex Legal

Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
10 people in their team
OverviewIn our experience, people get the most value from their lawyer when they’re talking about more than just the issue at hand. At Convex Legal...
Māori
English
Martelli McKegg

Martelli McKegg

Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 1921
50 people in their team
Practical legal help with doing business in New ZealandIf you want a reputable, well-established corporate/commercial law firm to act for you and...
Māori
English

About Estate Planning Law in New Zealand:

Estate planning in New Zealand is the process of legally organizing how your assets will be distributed after your death. This typically involves creating a will, setting up trusts, and making decisions regarding your property and financial affairs. A well-thought-out estate plan can help ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and can also help minimize taxes and other costs.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

There are several situations where you may require the assistance of a lawyer in estate planning. Some common scenarios include: - Complex family dynamics or multiple beneficiaries - High-value assets or businesses - Desire to minimize taxes and other costs - Need for trust creation or management - Disputes among family members or beneficiaries

Local Laws Overview:

In New Zealand, the key aspects of estate planning laws that are particularly relevant include the Wills Act 2007, which governs the validity and execution of wills, and the Trustee Act 1956, which regulates the administration of trusts. It's important to understand how these laws impact your estate planning decisions and how they can affect the distribution of your assets.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is the difference between a will and a trust?

A will is a legal document that outlines how your assets will be distributed after your death, while a trust is a legal arrangement where one party holds assets on behalf of another.

2. Do I need a lawyer to create an estate plan?

While it's possible to create a basic estate plan on your own, a lawyer can provide valuable advice and guidance to ensure your wishes are carried out effectively.

3. Can I update my will or trust after it has been created?

Yes, it's important to regularly review and update your estate plan to reflect any changes in your circumstances or wishes.

4. How can I minimize taxes in my estate plan?

A lawyer can help you explore tax planning strategies, such as gifting or setting up trusts, to minimize taxes on your estate.

5. What happens if I die without a will?

If you die without a will, your assets will be distributed according to the laws of intestacy, which may not reflect your wishes.

6. How can I protect my assets from creditors?

A lawyer can help you set up asset protection strategies, such as creating trusts or establishing business entities, to safeguard your assets from potential creditors.

7. What is the role of an executor in estate planning?

An executor is responsible for carrying out the instructions in your will, including distributing assets to beneficiaries and settling any debts or taxes on your estate.

8. Can I contest a will or trust?

Yes, if you believe that a will or trust is invalid or does not accurately reflect the deceased's wishes, you can contest it in court.

9. What is the difference between probate and administration?

Probate is the legal process of validating a will, while administration is the process of distributing assets when there is no will or the will is deemed invalid.

10. How much does it cost to hire a lawyer for estate planning?

The cost of hiring a lawyer for estate planning can vary depending on the complexity of your situation and the services you require. It's important to discuss pricing upfront with your lawyer.

Additional Resources:

For more information on estate planning in New Zealand, you may find these resources helpful: - New Zealand Law Society - Public Trust - Citizens Advice Bureau

Next Steps:

If you are in need of legal assistance for estate planning in New Zealand, consider reaching out to a qualified lawyer who specializes in this area of law. They can help you navigate the complexities of estate planning and ensure that your wishes are carried out effectively.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.