Quick answer
In New Zealand, divorce lawyers typically charge $250 – $500 per hour. Common fixed-fee work is shown below. 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 | Typical NZ fee |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate | $250 – $500/hr |
| Uncontested dissolution application | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| Joint application (no court appearance) | $800 – $1,800 |
| Relationship property agreement (s21 PRA) each party must receive independent legal advice | $1,500 – $4,500 |
Ranges reflect typical NZ market pricing observed across published firm fee guides and Ministry of Justice / NZ Law Society published rates (e.g. court filing fees). Individual firms vary widely. Always get a written engagement letter under Rule 3 of the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act (Conduct & Client Care) Rules 2008 before instructing.
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, an uncontested order is typically granted in 6 – 10 weeks.
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.
Deeper guide: Read the full divorce cost breakdown for worked examples, regional variation and pricing-question scripts to use when calling a lawyer.
Related
Information only — not legal advice. Fees vary by firm, region and matter complexity. Always obtain a written engagement letter under Rule 3 of the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act (Lawyers: Conduct and Client Care) Rules 2008 before instructing.