Connect with an Experienced Family Lawyer Today
challenge you face right now.
- All family lawyers are manually verified and NZ‑registered
- No waiting — fast response
- Free to use
- Strictly confidential
What we help with
We connect you with experienced family lawyers who can help with:
How it works
Three clear steps from enquiry to engagement. Built to save time and reduce stress.
Tell us your legal need
Provide some information about your family law need, your contact details, and chat to your assistant about your issue. No sign‑in required.
Examples: My relationship is ending, I want custody of my child, I'm a victim of domestic violenceGet matched
Let our system find the best match based on location, the specifics of your family law issue, availability and response time.
View reviews where available and see turnaround expectations.Engage your chosen family lawyer
Let the family law firm reach out to you, get help and move forward. Your lawyer will guide next steps.
We’re building tools to track progress and feedback.
What people are saying
“Finding a lawyer for my separation was so easy! I got matched with a great law firm and got the outcome I expected.”
Frequently asked questions
What issues does family law cover?
Family law includes separation, divorce, parenting orders, child support, adoption, relationship property, protection orders, and family violence matters. It also includes care and contact arrangements for children and spousal maintenance.
How do I start a separation or divorce?
You can apply for a divorce (called a dissolution of marriage) in the Family Court once you have lived apart for at least two years. You must provide proof of separation and, if you have children under 16, show that arrangements for their care are in place. The process can be done online through the Ministry of Justice website or by a lawyer.
Who decides who the children live with after separation?
If parents can’t agree, the Family Court can issue Parenting Orders under the Care of Children Act 2004. The Court’s primary concern is the child’s welfare and best interests. Mediation through Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) is usually required before going to court.
Can I get Legal Aid for a family law case?
Yes, if your income and assets are below certain limits and your case has legal merit. Legal Aid can cover matters like protection orders, parenting disputes, and relationship property division. You can apply through your lawyer or directly via the Ministry of Justice website.
What happens to property after separation?
Under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976, relationship property is usually divided equally after a relationship of three years or more. This includes the family home, vehicles, savings, and other shared assets. Shorter relationships or unusual contributions may justify a different split.
Do I have to go to court to resolve family disputes?
Not always. Many family disputes can be resolved through mediation, collaborative law, or private negotiation. Court is generally the last resort, used only when agreement can’t be reached or where there’s risk of harm, urgency, or violence.