Guide to NZ Legal Forms
Find the right forms for court filings, family matters, and legal documents
Quick Answer
Most NZ court forms are available free from the Ministry of Justice website (justice.govt.nz). Family Court forms start with "F" (e.g., FP9 for divorce), civil forms start with "CIV". Filing fees range from free to $2,000+ depending on court and claim value. For important matters, have a lawyer prepare or review forms before filing.
Family Court Forms
| Form | Code | Purpose | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application for Dissolution (Divorce) | FP9 | Apply for divorce/dissolution of marriage or civil union | $211.50 |
| Application for Parenting Order | FC1 | Apply for custody/care arrangements for children | $211.50 |
| Application for Protection Order | DV2 | Seek protection from domestic violence | No fee |
| Notice of Defence | FP10 | Respond to divorce/dissolution application | No fee |
| Application for Property Order | PRA1 | Divide relationship property | $211.50 |
Civil Court Forms
| Form | Code | Purpose | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Statement of Claim | CIV1 | Start a civil proceeding in District Court | $200-$450 |
| Statement of Defence | CIV3 | Respond to a civil claim against you | No fee |
| Application for Summary Judgment | CIV6 | Request judgment without full trial | $200 |
| Interlocutory Application | CIV5 | Request interim orders during proceedings | $200-$560 |
Common Legal Documents
Affidavit
Sworn written statement of facts
Requirements:
- • Must be sworn before authorised person
- • Signature witnessed by JP, solicitor, or notary
- • Exhibits must be properly marked
- • Use first person narrative
Typical cost: $20-$50 for witnessing
Statutory Declaration
Formal statement declaring facts to be true
Requirements:
- • Signed before JP, solicitor, or authorised person
- • Declares statement is true and correct
- • Used for non-court purposes
- • Penalties for false declarations
Typical cost: $20-$50 for witnessing
Enduring Power of Attorney
Appoint someone to manage your affairs
Requirements:
- • Two types: Property and Personal care/welfare
- • Must be witnessed by solicitor
- • Donor must have mental capacity
- • Can specify when it takes effect
Typical cost: $200-$500 (lawyer prepared)
Will
Direct how your estate is distributed
Requirements:
- • Must be in writing
- • Signed by testator
- • Two witnesses who both see you sign
- • Witnesses cannot be beneficiaries
Typical cost: $300-$800 (lawyer prepared)
Business Forms
Company Registration
Register a new company
Annual Return
Yearly company compliance filing
Change of Directors
Update company director details
Trademark Application
Register a trademark
Where to Find Forms
Ministry of Justice
Court forms, Family Court forms, criminal forms
Companies Office
Company registration, annual returns, director changes
LINZ
Property transfer, land registration, survey forms
Immigration NZ
Visa applications, employer accreditation
Employment NZ
Employment agreements, workplace templates
Tips for Completing Legal Forms
- ✓ Use black ink - Required for most official documents
- ✓ Print clearly - Or type where possible
- ✓ Keep copies - Always retain copies before submitting
- ✓ Check dates - Ensure dates are correct and consistent
- ✓ Sign where required - Don't miss any signature boxes
- ✓ Seek help - If unsure, consult a lawyer before filing
Important Warning
Incorrectly completed forms can delay proceedings, cost additional fees, or prejudice your case. For significant matters (property, custody, major claims), it's advisable to have a lawyer prepare or at minimum review your forms before filing.
Need Help with Legal Documents?
A lawyer can prepare forms correctly and ensure your rights are protected.