Quick answer
In New Zealand, IP lawyers typically charge $350 – $700 per hour. Common fixed-fee work is shown below.
Typical intellectual property fees
| Service | Typical NZ fee |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate | $350 – $700/hr |
| Trademark filing (1 class, IPONZ) plus IPONZ fees ~$100–$150 per class | $800 – $1,500 |
| Trademark search and clearance | $500 – $1,500 |
| Cease and desist letter | $800 – $2,500 |
| Licensing agreement | $2,000 – $6,000 |
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
- • Number of trademark classes filed
- • Whether the mark is opposed at IPONZ
- • Cross-border filings (Madrid Protocol)
- • Patent vs trademark vs copyright
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Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to register a trademark in NZ? ▾
A single-class trademark filing is commonly $800 – $1,500 in lawyer fees plus IPONZ fees of around $100 – $150 per class. Opposition proceedings add significantly to cost.
Do I need a lawyer or a patent attorney? ▾
Trademarks, copyright and brand protection are handled by lawyers. Patent prosecution requires a registered patent attorney (separate qualification). Some firms have both.
How much does a cease and desist letter cost? ▾
A standard cease-and-desist letter from a lawyer is commonly $800 – $2,500 depending on the complexity of the underlying IP and the recipient.
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.