Quick answer
In New Zealand, family lawyers typically charge $250 – $500 per hour. Common fixed-fee work is shown below. Legal aid: Family Court matters are the largest category of NZ legal aid grants — see the Ministry of Justice eligibility thresholds.
Typical family law fees
| Service | Typical NZ fee |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate | $250 – $500/hr |
| Uncontested separation order + dissolution | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Uncontested parenting plan (Care of Children Act) | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| Relationship property agreement (s21 PRA) requires independent legal advice for each party | $1,500 – $4,500 |
| Protection order application | $1,000 – $2,500 |
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 matter is contested or uncontested
- • Number of Family Court appearances required
- • Complexity of relationship property (trusts, businesses, overseas assets)
- • Whether a lawyer for the child is appointed
Legal aid
Family Court matters are the largest category of NZ legal aid grants — see the Ministry of Justice eligibility thresholds. Apply via your lawyer or the Ministry of Justice — see justice.govt.nz.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a family lawyer cost in NZ? ▾
Hourly rates typically run $250 – $500. Uncontested dissolution is commonly handled on a fixed fee of $1,500 – $3,000. Contested parenting or relationship-property matters move to hourly billing and can exceed $10,000 over the life of the matter.
Can I get legal aid for a family law matter? ▾
Yes — Family Court matters are the largest category of NZ legal aid grants. Eligibility depends on income, assets and the nature of the matter. Check the Ministry of Justice legal aid eligibility thresholds or ask the lawyer at the first meeting.
Do family lawyers offer free consultations? ▾
Many NZ family lawyers offer a 15–30 minute initial consultation at no cost, particularly for separation and Care of Children Act matters. Confirm before booking.
Deeper guide: Read the full family law 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.