Quick answer
We estimate family 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 is available for many Family Court matters — see the Ministry of Justice eligibility thresholds.
Typical family law fees
| Service | Estimated NZ fee |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate | $250 – $500/hr estimate |
| Uncontested separation order + dissolution | $1,500 – $3,000estimate |
| Uncontested parenting plan (Care of Children Act) | $1,200 – $2,500estimate |
| Relationship property agreement (s21 PRA) requires independent legal advice for each party | $1,500 – $4,500estimate |
| Protection order application | $1,000 – $2,500estimate |
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 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
Legal aid is available for many Family Court matters — 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? ▾
Often — legal aid is available for many Family Court matters. 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? ▾
Some offer a short first meeting at no cost and many charge for it. Ask what the first meeting costs when you book.
Sources
- Property (Relationships) Act 1976
- Care of Children Act 2004
- Family Proceedings Act 1980
- Ministry of Justice — Legal aid
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 family law 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.