This part of our web site provides information for the general public about lawyers and the legal system. The following sections may be useful for you:
- Why use a lawyer? – information to help you decide when to use a lawyer and how you might benefit from getting an expert involved
- Find a lawyer – enter your requirements to view a list of lawyers who practise in the field of law you are concerned with
- Introduction to Legal Aid – an outline of legal aid and a link to the website of the Legal Services Agency (LSA), the agency that helps provide advice and assistance for people who cannot afford legal services
- NZ Legal System – a summary of the New Zealand legal system to help you understand the basis of the law and the working of the legal system in New Zealand
- Finding Legal Advice – further assistance and information on where you can obtain legal advice, legal assistance and law-related education
Our recommendation:
Make sure that when you first contact your lawyer you both understand the nature of your problem, how long resolution might take, and how your lawyer will charge you. You should try to obtain this information in writing. The length of time a matter takes and the fees charged will often depend not only on you and your lawyer but also on other people involved in your dealing or court proceedings.
For more information about client care and lawyers fees, view the Complaints page of our web site.