Quick answer
We estimate divorce lawyers in New Zealand charge roughly $250 – $500 per hour. Estimated fees for common fixed-fee work are below; they are not quotes, and individual firms vary widely. Legal aid: Legal aid may apply for the property and parenting components of a separation. Dissolution-only applications are usually short and inexpensive.
Typical divorce fees
| Service | Estimated NZ fee |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate | $250 – $500/hr estimate |
| Uncontested dissolution application | $1,200 – $2,500estimate |
| Joint application (no court appearance) | $800 – $1,800estimate |
| Relationship property agreement (s21 PRA) each party must receive independent legal advice | $1,500 – $4,500estimate |
Where these figures come from
Lawyer fee ranges are LawyerFinder estimates, compiled in May 2026 and reviewed in October 2026. They are not drawn from a survey, and the New Zealand Law Society does not publish fee scales. Government fees and legal rules are checked against the official source cited beside them. Compiled 30 May 2026; reviewed 14 October 2026. Lawyers other than barristers sole must tell you in writing, in advance, the basis on which they will charge fees (Conduct and Client Care Rules 2008, rule 3.4); ask for a written estimate too.
What drives the cost
- • Whether the dissolution is joint or sole
- • Whether a relationship property dispute is also being settled
- • Whether parenting orders are needed
Legal aid
Legal aid may apply for the property and parenting components of a separation. Dissolution-only applications are usually short and inexpensive. Apply via your lawyer or the Ministry of Justice — see justice.govt.nz.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to get divorced in NZ? ▾
A joint dissolution application is commonly $800 – $1,800. A sole application $1,200 – $2,500. The Family Court filing fee is separate. Relationship property and parenting matters are billed separately.
How long does a divorce take in NZ? ▾
You can apply for a dissolution order after two years living apart. Once filed, timing depends on the court's workload; ask the court registry or your lawyer for a current estimate.
Do we both need a lawyer? ▾
For dissolution itself, no — one application can be filed jointly. For a relationship property agreement under s21 PRA, each party must receive independent legal advice and sign a certificate to that effect.
Sources
Legislation and government fee pages checked 14 October 2026. The lawyer-fee ranges above are our estimates and have no external source.
Deeper guide: Read the full divorce cost breakdown for worked examples, regional variation and pricing-question scripts to use when calling a lawyer.
Related
What other legal work costs
Information only — not legal advice. Fees vary by firm, region and matter complexity. Before instructing, expect the written fee information required by rule 3.4 of the Conduct and Client Care Rules 2008.