Main Street Legal is a well established law firm based in Upper Hutt, New Zealand, offering a full general legal practice. The firm traces its origins to 1992 when John Gwilliam founded the practice and it later became Main Street Legal in 2013. The firm has built a solid reputation for practical, results-oriented representation across core areas including litigation, trusts, family and criminal work.

Its local focus is complemented by a commitment to accessible client service. The firm runs a free weekly legal advice clinic on Wednesdays from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm and provides work on legal aid, reflecting an emphasis on providing affordable, plain language guidance to members of the community.

In its client service approach, Main Street Legal emphasizes clear communication, practical strategy and responsive support. The firm draws on its experience in civil disputes, family matters, criminal cases and property and commercial transactions to deliver tailored advice and representation that aligns with each client’s goals.

About Main Street Legal

Founded in 1992


Practice areas
Lawsuits & Disputes
Family
Criminal Defense
Real Estate
Corporate & Commercial

Languages spoken
English

ASK A FREE QUESTION

Free • Anonymous • Expert Lawyers

Need Personal Legal Help?

Connect with experienced lawyers in your area for personalized advice on your specific situation.

No obligation to hire. 100% free service.

Practice areas

Lawsuits & Disputes

Main Street Legal represents clients in civil disputes and court proceedings, providing thorough case evaluation, strategic planning, negotiation, and advocacy in local and higher courts as needed. The firm leverages its litigation strengths to pursue efficient outcomes, whether by settlement or by trial, while keeping clients informed and engaged throughout the process.
ADR Mediation & Arbitration
Appeal
Class Action
General Litigation
Ethics and Professional Responsibility
Commercial Litigation
Antitrust Litigation
Restructuring & Insolvency

Family

Main Street Legal supports clients in family law matters such as divorce, parenting arrangements, property settlements and related issues, delivering clear explanations, compassionate guidance and practical solutions to help families manage transitions while protecting their interests.
Adoption
Child Abuse
Child Custody
Child Support
Child Visitation
Collaborative Law
Divorce & Separation
Domestic Violence
Father's Rights
Marriage
Military Divorce
Same Sex & LGBT
Annulment

Criminal Defense

Main Street Legal offers criminal defense representation, starting with a thorough case evaluation, the development of a strategic plan, and vigorous advocacy in court. The firm aims to protect clients' rights and achieve the best possible outcomes by drawing on its local court experience.
Arrests & Searches
Bail Bond Service
Criminal Litigation
Drug Crime
Drunk Driving
DUI & DWI
Juvenile Law
Sex Crime
Speeding & Traffic Ticket
White Collar Crime

Real Estate

Main Street Legal provides real estate services including property transactions and conveyancing, guiding clients through purchases and sales, leasing matters, contract reviews, due diligence and compliance with New Zealand real estate law.
Commercial Real Estate
Housing, Construction & Development
Foreclosure
Land Use & Zoning
Landlord & Tenant
Mortgage
Real Estate Due Diligence
Real Estate Contracts and Negotiations
Brokerage
Conveyancing

Corporate & Commercial

Main Street Legal assists small and medium sized enterprises with corporate and commercial matters, including company formation, share and asset transactions, franchising arrangements and commercial finance, with emphasis on risk management and practical business outcomes.
Administrative
Admiralty & Maritime
Agriculture
Antitrust
Aviation
Business Registration
Contract
Due Diligence
Franchising
Gaming
Government Contract
Licensing
Merger & Acquisition
Transportation
Venture Capital
Cannabis Law
Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations
International Trade Law
Government Relations & Lobbying
Private Equity
Corporate Governance
Sanctions & Export Controls