Relationship Property Lawyers Christchurch
Contracting-Out Agreements & Asset Splits Under The Property Act
Dividing assets after a separation can be stressful and complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Weston Ward & Lascelles, our relationship property lawyers in Christchurch provide clear, strategic legal support to help you secure your financial future. Whether you're dealing with a property settlement, prenuptial agreement, or separation agreement, we ensure your rights are protected and the process is as smooth as possible. With over 140 years of experience helping Cantabrians through life’s big transitions, we balance empathy with practical legal knowledge.
What is Relationship Property & How is it Divided?
Relationship property includes shared assets and debts accumulated during a relationship under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976. This generally covers:
- The Family Home: Equity built up in your primary residence.
- Savings & Investments: Bank accounts, investments, and superannuation or KiwiSaver accrued during the relationship.
- Vehicles & Chattels: Cars, boats, furniture, and valuable household items.
- Joint Debts & Liabilities: Mortgages, personal loans, and credit cards.
Understanding what qualifies as relationship property is essential to protecting your financial interests. Our Christchurch lawyers provide tailored legal advice, helping you navigate settlements and avoid costly disputes.
Separation Agreements & Property Settlements
A separation agreement (Section 21A agreement) is a legally binding document outlining how property, finances, and responsibilities will be divided after a breakup. Whether you are ending a marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship, our relationship property lawyers ensure your agreement is fair, robust, and legally binding.
- Protects Your Financial Future: Secures your share of assets so you can rebuild with certainty.
- Reduces Dispute Risks: Prevents future financial claims or unexpected disagreements down the road.
- Ensures a Smooth Legal Process: Handled efficiently out of court wherever possible.
To be legally binding in New Zealand, both parties must receive independent legal advice. Our Christchurch legal team ensures your rights are upheld throughout every stage.
Flexible Legal Fee Financing with JustFund
We know that separation and property disputes can place significant pressure on your cash flow. It is common for one partner to hold control of primary funds or accounts, making it difficult to pay for legal representation upfront.
To ensure you receive top-tier legal advice without immediate financial hardship, Weston Ward & Lascelles has partnered with JustFund — New Zealand’s only dedicated provider of family law funding.
Key Benefits of JustFund Financing
- Nothing to Repay until Settlement: You make no ongoing monthly repayments; the line of credit is repaid only when your property settlement is finalised.
- No Income or Credit Score Checks: Approval is based on the equity in your property settlement, not your current salary or credit history.
- Flexible Line of Credit: Draw down funds as needed to cover ongoing legal fees and disbursements throughout your matter.
- Financial Independence: Ensures you are not forced into an unfair settlement simply because you lack immediate cash to stand your ground.
Who is Eligible for JustFund Support?
JustFund legal financing specifically covers matters involving relationship property settlements. While it cannot cover cases that exclusively deal with care-of-children or parenting arrangements, if you are resolving property and parenting matters simultaneously, JustFund can assist.
Pre-Nuptial & Contracting-Out Agreements
Planning ahead doesn’t mean you expect a relationship to fail — it means you’re being practical and proactive. Our lawyers draft and certify legally binding contracting-out agreements (often called prenups) that:
Protect pre-relationship assets, inheritances, and family trust distributions.
Clarify how property and assets will be divided if you separate in the future.
Eliminate the risk of future disputes and expensive litigation.
“Couldn't have asked for better in a Lawyer”
(Family Client)
Why choose Weston Ward & Lascelles?
Unmatched Experience
Over 140 years of experience helping Christchurch families navigate relationship property law.
Tailored Advice
Personalised, compassionate support designed around your unique financial situation.
Comprehensive Services
From drafting prenups to negotiating complex trust splits and court representation.
Transparent Communication
Clear guidance on your legal rights, realistic outcomes, and fee structures.
Our Process – What to Expect When you Work With us
Initial Consultation
Our team prepares or reviews all separation agreements, disclosures, or prenups.
Document Preparation
Our team prepares or reviews all separation agreements, disclosures, or prenups.
Negotiation & Resolution
Wherever possible, we negotiate constructively to achieve a fair settlement outside of court.
Family Court Representation
If a fair agreement cannot be reached, we represent you in court with skill and determination.
Ongoing Support
We remain available for related legal needs, including updating your Will, Trust, or property titles.
Relationship Property FAQs
Recommended Reading
Meet our Family Law Team
With decades of combined experience, our team has guided hundreds of Canterbury families through life’s most challenging transitions.
Contact Our Relationship Property Lawyers
Take the first step towards financial peace of mind in Christchurch. Contact our experienced relationship property lawyers today for trusted, strategic guidance.
