Best Lawyers in New Zealand

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

Free. Takes 2 min.

Or refine your search by selecting a city:

Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 1966
English
Totara Law is a West Auckland law firm with roots dating back to 1966. Originally established in New Lynn, the practice has grown through mergers in 2017 and 2021 to become a West Auckland powerhouse focused on family, property and business law.Totara Law has a strong reputation as a leading West...
Harmans Lawyers
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1888
200 people in their team
Mฤori
English
Our HistoryServing Canterbury since 1888Harmansโ€™ long association with Canterburyโ€™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...
Langley Twigg Law
Napier City, New Zealand

Founded in 1864
25 people in their team
English
Langley Twigg Law is a Hawke's Bay law firm with offices in Napier and Havelock North, offering property, commercial, estates and resource management services across New Zealand. The practice maintains a broad general practice model with named partners, solicitors and legal executives who handle...

English
Based in Christchurch, Streamline Property Conveyancing acts as both conveyancer and real estate attorney for residential and commercial transactions. The firm provides full-service conveyancing including sale and purchase transactions, KiwiSaver withdrawals for property purchases, refinancing...
Corban Revell Lawyers
Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 1977
English
Corban Revell Lawyers is a long-standing West Auckland law firm known for practical, business-minded legal guidance rooted in mana and tikanga. Established in 1977, the firm serves individuals, families and organisations across a broad range of matters including property, commercial work, family...
CN Law
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
10 people in their team
Mฤori
English
CN Law is located in Tauranga CBD.  David Calderwood and Jodi Nicols established CN Law in 2017 with a vision is to grow a successful firm known for its people and its performance. โ€‹Whether you need assistance in the buying or selling of your home, or legal representation in the Family...
Michael Hunwick Lawyer
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2012
50 people in their team
Mฤori
English
Michael has been practicing law in Hamilton since 1985, earning him a dedicated client base over this period. His ability to communicate effectively and connect with his clients has seen him successfully build his practise, and is undoubtedly a reason for his loyal client base. Providing legal...
DG Law Limited
Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 1984
50 people in their team
Mฤori
English
HistoryDavid Graham began practice on his own account in Panmure in 1984 as David Graham Law Office.In February 1998 the firm had grown significantly, so David and the team relocated to 13 Queens Road, Panmure (the old Westpac building).The growth of the firm continued and in January 2004 David was...
JB Morrison
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 1924
200 people in their team
Mฤori
English
AboutJB Morrison is a well-established, full-service New Zealand law firm with offices in Wellington and Rotorua, offering legal expertise in business, property, family law, litigation, Mฤori land, and employment, serving individuals, businesses (from SMEs to large corporations), and government...
Collins & May Law
Lower Hutt, New Zealand

Founded in 1992
17 people in their team
English
Collins & May Law is a Lower Hutt based law firm with origins dating back to 1992 when Lloyd Collins established the practice and it later joined with Paul May to form Collins and May Law Office. The firm serves individuals and small to medium sized businesses with practical, clear advice across...
AS SEEN ON

New Zealand Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 5 legal questions in New Zealand and read the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

Road collision
A person pulled in front of me when I was on a pedal bike and hit the side of the car. Iโ€™m battered, cut and bruised, my ribs are bent in from the handle bars. Witness gave statement to the police. Not my fault and ACC have accepted the claim... Read more โ†’
Lawyer answer by Ascendance International Consulting (A-I-C)

Thank you for reaching out, and weโ€™re very sorry to hear about your accident. Weโ€™re glad ACC has accepted your claim for medical treatment, but you may still have important rights and remedies available in New Zealand. Under NZ law,...

Read full answer
1 answer โ€ข
family lawyer
in new Zealand, In child custody case, after the round table meeting between all three lawyer, what happens ?
Lawyer answer by Ascendance International Consulting (A-I-C)

In New Zealand family-law proceedings, a 'round-table' meeting (often called a family dispute resolution conference) is typically held after the parties have exchanged their initial evidence and before the matter proceeds to a formal court hearing. All three lawyersโ€”representing the...

Read full answer
1 answer โ€ข
Accredited work visa about to expire
Immigration
Am on accredited work visa from 2022 ,working in level 4 and 5 as housekeeping attendant. Visa expires on Dec 5th with my 2 independent children. According to new rule from nov 3rd if I complete my 3 yrs ,can I work for the same company to get my left... Read more โ†’
Lawyer answer by mohammad mehdi ghanbari

Hello,I have read about your situation regarding your Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) which is expiring soon. I understand this must be a stressful time, especially with your concern for your children's education and your desire for them to complete...

Read full answer
1 answer โ€ข

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 lawyerโ€™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 โ€” 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.

Practice Areas

Refine your search by selecting a practice area.

View all practice areas
Accidents & Injuries
Banking & Finance
Bankruptcy & Debt
Business
Civil & Human Rights
Consumer Rights
Corporate & Commercial
Criminal Defense
Employment & Labor
Energy, Environment & ESG
Family
Immigration
Insurance
Intellectual Property
Lawsuits & Disputes
Media, Technology and Telecoms
Notary Services
Private Client
Real Estate