Often we are contacted by a child, after the death of a parent, to see whether they should make a claim against their parent’s estate. They may be unhappy with the size of the provision for them, or may have been excluded completely. Equally we have faced questions from ...
Read Article
A recent survey conducted by Westpac, of their members, found that just 25 per cent knew that the funds in KiwiSaver could be split between a separating or divorcing couple.
Read Article
With more couples choosing to invest a significant amount of money in their engagement ring, when an engagement is called off, the question of who keeps the ring can be contentious and have a significant impact on the division of property between partners or spouses.
Read Article
On 1 February 2002 the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 heralded in new rules regarding parties’ rights to property on the breakdown of a relationship, or on death. After 15 years of operation it is now being reviewed.
Read Article
You may have read recent commentary in the papers from the Courts regarding delays in the processing of cases through the Family Court. In one highlighted case the relationship was less than three years but six years after it ended the case was still languishing in Court. Some of this ...
Read Article
One of the most important issues to resolve when you separate from a partner is how you will each share the care of the children. Many families require assistance to work out a fair and practical child care arrangement that is in the best interests and welfare of the children.
Read Article
Many people who immigrate to New Zealand often know little about our domestic laws and how they may impact their rights, particularly in the family context. When a couple separate they can find themselves faced with legal issues they weren’t aware of in what is already an upsetting and ...
Read Article
When a couple separates it can be a very sad and confusing time. Here are a few tips to help you know what information you will need to give your legal advisor to help you through the minefield of separation....
Read Article
Sometimes the Court can order an unequal division of relationship property when a couple separates - find out why...
Read Article
Generally if you are your child's biological parent then you are their guardian - but sometimes there are more complicated circumstances which apply and guardians have to be appointed by the Court.
Read Article
Major changes to the NZ child support formula were recently introduced with further changes to come in April 2016. This article (originally published in the Legal Client Newsletter) covers some of the key changes and whether they might have an effect on you or your family.
Read Article
The recent tragic deaths of Jerry Collins and his wife bring to light the importance of not only having current Wills but of having provision for the care of any child you may have should both parents die. Many people assume that if they die, the other parent will be ...
Read Article