Best Estate Planning Lawyers in Wellington

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Convex Legal

Convex Legal

Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
10 people in their team
Māori
English
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 we look at your situation as a whole—dealing with today, but keeping an eye on what’s coming next.For us, it’s about three things: Keeping it...
Khandallah Law

Khandallah Law

Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
Māori
English
Joanne Cheer is the sole practitioner in Khandallah Law, a boutique law practice located in the heart of Khandallah.Areas of practice:Non-litigation:Residential Conveyancing (buying and selling property)Refinancing mortgagesRetirement Villages – Occupation LicencesWillsEnduring Powers of...
Dentons Kensington Swan

Dentons Kensington Swan

Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 2013
50 people in their team
Māori
English
About Dentons Kensington SwanDentons Kensington Swan is one of New Zealand’s leading commercial law firms with offices in Auckland and Wellington. Our teams collaborate to provide complete legal solutions that are tailored to each client. We are committed to providing a responsive, professional...
Wakefields Lawyers

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...
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About Estate Planning Law in Wellington, New Zealand

Estate planning in Wellington, New Zealand involves establishing a comprehensive plan to manage your wealth during life and distribute it after your death. It typically encompasses the creation of wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, and may include strategies to mitigate estate taxes, protect assets, and ensure continuity of businesses. The specific laws and regulations affecting estate planning can vary by region and personal circumstances, thus it is essential to seek professional assistance when navigating this complex legal field.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are numerous situations where individuals may require legal advice in estate planning. These include drafting a will or setting up a trust, planning for retirement or future healthcare needs, organising a strategy to reduce estate taxes, providing for minor children or family members with special needs, and protecting a business on the onset of death. A knowledgeable lawyer can offer valuable guidance and implement effective strategies to ensure that your estate is distributed according to your wishes and in a tax-efficient manner.

Local Laws Overview

In Wellington, estate planning is largely governed by the Wills Act 2007, the Property (Relationships) Act 1976, and the Estate and Gift Duties Act 2001. This legislation has detailed provisions regarding the validity of wills, rights of spouses and partners, and duties on estate and gifts. The laws also allow for the creation of different types of trusts to secure asset protection and tax advantages. Trusts and estates can be complex and challenges may arise in the administration process, so understanding the legal environment and working with a competent attorney is crucial.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I write my own will?

Yes, you can write your own will in New Zealand, but it must meet specific requirements to be legally valid. This includes being in writing, signed by you and witnessed by two others. However, it is strongly recommended to consult with an estate planning lawyer to ensure that your will accurately reflects your intentions and complies with all necessary legal requirements.

2. What is a power of attorney?

A power of attorney is a legal document in which you appoint another person to act on your behalf. The person you appoint could be authorized to make financial and/or personal and health care decisions when you are not able to do so.

3. What happens if I die without a will?

If you die without a valid will in New Zealand, your estate will be distributed according to the law of intestacy. This might differ from what you would have wished, which is why it's beneficial to have a legal will in place.

4. How does estate tax work?

New Zealand currently does not impose an inheritance tax or estate tax. However, other taxes like capital gains tax or income tax might apply under certain circumstances, so it is important to get legal advice on these matters.

5. What is a trust?

A trust is a legal arrangement where one party, known as the trustee, holds property for the benefit of another party, known as the beneficiary. Trusts can help with asset protection and estate planning.

Additional Resources

You may find further assistance and resources from the New Zealand Law Society, Community Law Centres, and Citizens Advice Bureau. These organizations provide a range of services, including legal information, practical advice and, in some cases, legal representation as well.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in estate planning, it's advisable to contact and consult with a knowledgeable lawyer practising in this area of law. They can provide comprehensive guidance, draft essential documents, and ensure that your estate planning goals are successfully met within the boundaries of the law.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Wellington 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 Estate Planning, 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 Wellington, 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.