Best Lawyers in Christchurch

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

Free. Takes 2 min.

Duncan Cotterill

Duncan Cotterill

Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1857
500 people in their team
Māori
English
Duncan Cotterill has grown to become one of the leading law firms in New Zealand. We have achieved this because as a firm we are very clear about where we are heading and what we want to achieve. We have a strong set of values and we are totally committed to working alongside our clients to help...
Corcoran French Lawyers

Corcoran French Lawyers

Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1892
50 people in their team
Māori
English
We are large enough to service your legal needs at every turn, but small enough to know you.  Corcoran French is your legal firm for life.We’re big enough that we have our finger on the pulse of legal policies and regulations. At the same time, we are small enough to stay accessible, provide...
Kannangara Thomson

Kannangara Thomson

Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2007
10 people in their team
Māori
English
We are guided by the values that form the cornerstone of our approach to work, and how we treat our clients and one another.Our values include integrity, confidentiality, honesty, diversity, reliability and inclusivity. As one team, we support all our clients across the breadth of legal services....
Layburn Hodgins Barristers & Solicitors

Layburn Hodgins Barristers & Solicitors

Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
Māori
English
With more than 20 years of helping our clients come to (and live in) New Zealand - our immigration lawyers are experts!  The visa application process is tricky and the rules are always changing - but our expert immigration lawyers know what needs to be done to get the quickest results. Before...
Godfreys Law

Godfreys Law

Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1870
50 people in their team
Māori
English
We’ve proudly been helping Cantabrians like you for almost 150 years.Our aim is to make your life easier.We’re real people, providing real legal solutions.You might have seen our building as you drive down Moorhouse Ave, opposite the Ara Polytech buildings. Just off Washington Way, you will...
Prime Legal Ltd

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...
Harmans Lawyers

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

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,...
Alpers & Co - Northwest Law Office - Lawyers & Notary Public

Alpers & Co - Northwest Law Office - Lawyers & Notary Public

Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
We are a team of experienced and approachable lawyers who deal with a variety of legal matters including property & business sale and purchases (conveyancing), building contracts, wills, trusts, estates, relationship property agreements, enduring powers of attorney and notary services, through...
MDS Law

MDS Law

Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2012
10 people in their team
Māori
English
Embrace thinking:{mds} law is a medium sized specialist property and commercial law firm based in Christchurch, New Zealand.  We act for clients locally and nationally and also act for international clients with businesses or property in New Zealand as well as those looking to invest in New...
AS SEEN ON
Practice Areas

Refine your search by selecting a practice area.

View all practice areas
Accidents & Injuries
Bankruptcy & Debt
Business
Civil & Human Rights
Consumer Rights
Criminal Defense
Elder Law
Employment & Labor
Family
Immigration
Insurance
Intellectual Property
Lawsuits & Disputes
Media, Technology and Telecoms
Real Estate
Business Top Accounting & Auditing law firms in Christchurch Top Administrative law firms in Christchurch Top Admiralty & Maritime law firms in Christchurch Top Agriculture law firms in Christchurch Top Antitrust law firms in Christchurch Top Aviation law firms in Christchurch Top Banking & Finance law firms in Christchurch Top Business Registration law firms in Christchurch Top Communications & Media Law law firms in Christchurch Top Contract law firms in Christchurch Top Due Diligence law firms in Christchurch Top Employer law firms in Christchurch Top Environment law firms in Christchurch Top Financial Services Regulation law firms in Christchurch Top Franchising law firms in Christchurch Top Gaming law firms in Christchurch Top Government Contract law firms in Christchurch Top Government Relations & Lobbying law firms in Christchurch Top Health Care law firms in Christchurch Top International law firms in Christchurch Top International Trade Law law firms in Christchurch Top Investment law firms in Christchurch Top Legal Document law firms in Christchurch Top Licensing law firms in Christchurch Top Merger & Acquisition law firms in Christchurch Top New Business Formation law firms in Christchurch Top Nonprofit & Charitable Organizations law firms in Christchurch Top Office Solutions law firms in Christchurch Top Oil, Gas & Energy law firms in Christchurch Top Securities law firms in Christchurch Top Tax law firms in Christchurch Top Tax Increment Financing law firms in Christchurch Top Transportation law firms in Christchurch Top Venture Capital law firms in Christchurch

New Zealand Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 3 legal questions in New Zealand and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

Can I apply for asylum?
Asylum
Immigration
I can share my professional opinion with you, contact me on WhatsApp: +38970704335Regards,
property agreement documents
Real Estate Contracts and Negotiations
**SJ Law Experts, Islamabad**All matters related to U.S. Immigrant Visa Petitions, USCIS Petition, USCIS Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA), USCIS Waiver Petition, USCIS Motion, U.S. Returning Resident Visa (SB-1 Visa), U.S. Nonimmigrant Visas, Canada, UK and Schengen States Visa applications and Family Law, Property Law or Corporate Law: Contact SJ Law Experts, Islamabad or Call /WhatsApp at +92 335-411-2288 and email at [email protected]. For more information, visit our Website: www.SJLawExperts.com.Thank youSJ Law Experts, Islamabad [Advocates, Legal Advisors & Immigration Lawyers]
Sister abusing power of attorney
Elder Law
Feel free to contact me via Viber (text me): +38970704335I can answer your question.Regards,Svetislav Stojanoski, attorney at law

About Hiring a Lawyer in Christchurch, New Zealand

Hiring a lawyer in Christchurch, New Zealand is a straightforward process but requires due diligence to ensure you're selecting the right professional for your legal needs. The first step is identifying the type of legal service you need, as many lawyers specialize in specific areas such as family law, property law, or criminal law. Once you've pinpointed the kind of legal expertise required, you can research law firms and practitioners through online directories, recommendations, and professional legal associations. When contacting potential lawyers, prepare a list of your questions and issues for an initial consultation. Most lawyers offer a preliminary meeting, often at no charge, to discuss your case and how they can assist.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are various situations where you might require legal help in Christchurch, New Zealand. Common scenarios include buying or selling property, which involves conveyancing; family matters such as divorce, custody agreements, or adoptions; establishing or managing a business; dealing with employment disputes; needing representation in criminal matters; handling a will or estate planning; and seeking immigration advice. Legal assistance ensures that your rights are protected and that you follow correct procedures according to New Zealand law.

Local Laws Overview

The legal landscape in Christchurch is governed by both national statutes and local bylaws. Key legal areas include property law which involves the purchase, lease, and sale of real estate; environmental laws concerning zoning and construction due to the city's rebuilding efforts after the 2011 earthquake; and family laws which are comprehensive regarding marriage, civil unions, and the care of children. The Resource Management Act is particularly relevant for development projects, while the Employment Relations Act guides workplace conditions. Understanding these frameworks is crucial for ensuring compliance and successful navigation of legal challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when choosing a lawyer in Christchurch?

Look for qualifications, experience in relevant law fields, good client testimonials, and an approachable communication style. Ensure they're registered with the New Zealand Law Society.

How are legal fees structured in Christchurch?

Legal fees can be hourly, fixed, or contingency-based, depending on the services provided. It’s important to discuss fees upfront during your initial consultation to avoid unexpected costs.

Can I get free legal advice in Christchurch?

Yes, certain organizations offer free or low-cost legal advice, such as Community Law Canterbury. Some lawyers might also offer a free initial consultation.

How can I verify a lawyer's credentials?

You can verify a lawyer's credentials through the New Zealand Law Society, which maintains a registry of licensed practitioners.

Do I need to see a specialist lawyer in Christchurch?

If your case involves specialized knowledge or complex issues, seeking a lawyer who specializes in the relevant area of law can be beneficial.

How do I handle disputes with a lawyer?

If you're dissatisfied with your lawyer's service, you can address it directly or contact the New Zealand Law Society’s Lawyers Complaints Service.

What's the process for legal aid in Christchurch?

Legal aid is available for those who cannot afford legal representation. You need to meet eligibility criteria, which consider your income and the nature of your legal issue.

What is the New Zealand Law Society’s role?

The New Zealand Law Society regulates lawyers, sets professional standards, offers dispute resolution services, and serves as a resource for legal information.

Is mediation a viable option in Christchurch legal matters?

Mediation is often encouraged as a first step in disputes, especially in family and civil matters, promoting resolution without court intervention.

How long does it take to resolve a legal issue?

The duration varies based on complexity and court involvement. Simple matters may resolve quickly, while others, especially those involving litigation, can take months or years.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, you can contact:

  • New Zealand Law Society for regulatory information and lawyer registry.
  • Community Law Canterbury for free and low-cost legal advice.
  • Ministry of Justice for information on legal aid and court services.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in Christchurch, start by identifying your legal needs and researching potential lawyers or services. Utilize initial consultations to assess compatibility and expertise, and ensure transparent discussions about costs. Take advantage of resources like Community Law Canterbury if cost is a concern. Always ensure that your chosen lawyer is fully accredited and, if necessary, explore mediation or alternative dispute resolutions to handle your issue effectively.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Christchurch 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, 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 Christchurch, 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.