Best Lawyers in New Zealand

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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...
Harris Tate Lawyers
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 1995
50 people in their team
Māori
English
Originally founded by Ross Harris in 1980 before partnering with Alan Tate in 1995, Harris Tate has become one of Tauranga’s most trusted law firms driven by its passion to provide people with smart , intelligent advice with excellent service.Clients are at the heart of our business. With that in...
Parshotam Lawyers
Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
About UsParshotam Lawyers, established over 35 years ago, has always had one simple goal; to provide clients across New Zealand with cost-effective legal solutions.Located in the heart of Mt Roskill, the dynamic team at Parshotam Lawyers are client-focused and have extensive experience in a wide...
Lane Neave
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 1868
200 people in their team
Māori
English
Lane Neave is committed to solving problems and realising opportunities for our clients.We tap into more than 150 years of experience and provide our hugely talented pool of emerging and current legal experts with the opportunity to make the complex simple.We provide clear, decisive legal advice...
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...
Community Law Canterbury
Christchurch, New Zealand

English
Community Law Canterbury, also known as Te Ture Whānui o Waitaha, is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing accessible and high-quality legal assistance to individuals in Canterbury and the West Coast who encounter barriers to justice. The firm offers a comprehensive range of services,...
Saunders & Co Lawyers
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1922
200 people in their team
Māori
English
SAUNDERS & CO IS A FIRM OF CHRISTCHURCH LAWYERS EXPERIENCED IN COMMERCIAL AND CORPORATE MATTERS, INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY, LITIGATION, IMMIGRATION, FAMILY, CRIMINAL , TAX, RESOURCE MANGEMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAW.Our Christchurch law firm office is divided into teams.The...
Gurnell Harrison Stanley Law
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
Personal. Straight Up. Affordable. Gurnell Harrison Stanley provides legal advice to a wide range of business, rural, not-for-profit, trust and individual clients throughout New Zealand.  Based in Hamilton, our firm specialises in business and property law. We bring extensive...
Lawhub - Law Firm
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
50 people in their team
Lawhub is a boutique law firm which specialises in immigration, criminal, family, matrimonial, property, employment, and estate law. With offices in Christchurch and Hamilton, our team have been providing quality legal advice since 2017.‍At the heart of everything we do is genuine care for...
Baywide Community Law Service
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 1988
50 people in their team
Māori
English
About usBaywide Community Law supports our community by enabling access to free legal services for people living along the Bay of Plenty coast, from Waihi to Te Kaha.We offer free legal information to everyone, and one-on-one legal advice to people on low incomes, with disabilities or other...
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New Zealand Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 2 legal questions in New Zealand and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

Caveat to protect financial interests
Probate
5 yrs care for mother. Made a claim, emailed to the administrator, 3 months after probate was granted. Advised to refrain from distributing any assets until the claim and potential abuse are resolved. Discovered abuse of the EPA. Evidence. Bank statements affidavit. No correspondence, just promises to engage. Stalled communication,... Read more →
Lawyer answer by Recososa Law Firm

Hello: From what you shared, you rendered care for your mother for five years and made a claim against the estate after probate was granted. You also raised issues on possible abuse of the Enduring Power of Attorney, backed up...

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1 answer
Can I apply for asylum?
Asylum Immigration
I came here in New zealand 7 April 2023 on work visa as health care (care taker). Now i apply for extension, I have work experience from college in India. But they denied my experience. I don't feel safe in my country.
Lawyer answer by Islaw - Expert Lawyers

You arrived in New Zealand on 7 April 2023 on a work visa as a health care (caregiver). You have work experience from India, likely linked to a college or institution. But Immigration New Zealand (INZ) did not accept that...

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1 answer

About Hiring a Lawyer in New Zealand

Hiring a lawyer in New Zealand involves several straightforward steps. First, identify your specific legal needs, as different lawyers specialize in various areas such as family, criminal, or employment law. Next, research lawyers or law firms, which can be done through recommendations, online searches, or directories like the New Zealand Law Society's "Find a Lawyer" service. Once you have a shortlist, schedule consultations to assess their expertise, approach, and fees. Ensure they hold a current practicing certificate, which signifies they are qualified and permitted to practice law in New Zealand.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are numerous situations where seeking legal advice is beneficial, including:

  • Buying or Selling Property: Legal expertise is crucial for handling contracts and due diligence.
  • Family Matters: Lawyers can assist with divorce, child custody arrangements, and adoption processes.
  • Business Needs: Companies often need legal advice for contracts, disputes, or compliance with regulations.
  • Criminal Charges: A lawyer ensures rights are protected and can advocate on your behalf in court.
  • Wills and Estates: Legal advice can help in properly drafting a will to avoid disputes over estates.
  • Immigration Issues: Lawyers can support applications for visas or residency in New Zealand.

Local Laws Overview

New Zealand's legal system is based on common law and is influenced by both legislation and case law. Important areas include:

  • Property Law: Governed by legislation like the Property Law Act and requires legal documentation and adherence to strict procedures.
  • Employment Law: The Employment Relations Act emphasizes fair treatment in workplaces.
  • Criminal Law: Governed by the Crimes Act, outlining offenses and penalties.
  • Consumer Protection: The Consumer Guarantees Act ensures products and services meet certain standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does it cost to hire a lawyer in New Zealand?

Legal fees can vary based on the complexity of the case and the lawyer's experience. Discuss fees upfront during the initial consultation.

2. Are there free legal services available?

Yes, services like Community Law Centres and the Citizens Advice Bureau offer free legal advice and guidance.

3. How do I check if a lawyer is registered in New Zealand?

The New Zealand Law Society provides an online "Find a Lawyer" service to verify a lawyer's qualifications and practicing certificate.

4. What is a retainer fee?

A retainer fee is an upfront payment made to a lawyer to secure their services and is often used for ongoing legal work.

5. Can I switch lawyers if I am dissatisfied?

Yes, you are entitled to change lawyers at any point, but consider any contractual obligations or fees involved.

6. What should I bring to the first meeting with a lawyer?

Bring all relevant documents related to your case, such as contracts, correspondence, and identification.

7. Is it necessary to have a lawyer for all legal matters?

While not always necessary, a lawyer’s expertise can prevent costly mistakes and ensure rights are protected.

8. How long does a legal process typically take?

Duration varies greatly depending on the nature of the case; some issues may resolve quickly, while others can take months or years.

9. Can I represent myself in court?

Yes, you can represent yourself, but having a lawyer is advisable due to their legal knowledge and expertise.

10. How does client-lawyer confidentiality work?

Lawyers must keep client information confidential unless disclosure is required by law or with client consent.

Additional Resources

For trustworthy legal advice and resources, consider these entities:

  • New Zealand Law Society
  • Community Law Centres
  • Citizens Advice Bureau
  • Ministry of Justice

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in New Zealand, start by identifying your needs and researching qualified lawyers. Prepare for consultations by gathering relevant documents and asking about their experience and fees. Take advantage of free resources for preliminary advice, and always ensure your chosen lawyer is registered and holds a valid practicing certificate. Your proactive steps now can safeguard your rights and support a favorable outcome in your legal matters.

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, 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.