Service

Family Law

For most of us, our family is the most precious thing in our life. To be involved in a dispute with a member of your family can be a stressful and emotional experience.

Family law issues can be complex and require not only legal knowledge, but the ability to work with clients in what is a demanding and emotional time.  Each family experience differs,  and our Family Team have broad expertise to provide you with straightforward, practical advice and information which adapts to your needs.

Our expertise means we are able to provide you with the support and legal guidance you need to navigate the difficulties that can arise in resolving disputes; whether that be related to parenting and guardianship, or family violence.

One of our team is a Family Court appointed Lawyer for Child, so we can provide specific insight and guidance on what the Family Court might take into account when considering a child’s best interests and welfare.

Our team are able to assist with a variety of matters, including:

  • Care arrangements for children (custody and access).

  • Guardianship disputes.

  • Protection Orders, Occupation and Furniture Orders under the Family Violence Act 2018.

  • Applications to the Family Court under the Care of Children Act 2004, such as an Application for a Parenting Order; Application to determine guardianship matters such as what school a child might attend, or the resolution of medical issues in the event guardians cannot agree.

  • Applications for a Welfare Guardian and/or Property Manger under the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988.

  • Adoption and surrogacy matters, under the Adoption Act 1955.

Notable experience:

  • Obtaining urgent Orders to prevent removal of a child from New Zealand.

  • Having Orders preventing removal discharged.

  • The successful surrogacy and adoption of a child to a same sex couple, via the Family Court.

  • Successful resolution of an urgent Family Court application as to where a child would attend school.

  • Resolution of the terms of a Parenting Order, by way of holding a ‘round table meeting’ with all parties involved.

  • Successfully defending the making of a Final Protection Order.

  • Successfully obtaining Final Protection Orders.

  • Successfully obtaining Orders allowing, as well as disallowing, a child to relocate to a different city.

  • Successfully obtaining Orders appointing a Welfare Guardian and Property Manager under the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988.