Services
Relationship Property & Separation
Relationship Property and Separation Lawyers
We advise individuals on relationship property and separation matters across Central Otago and throughout New Zealand.
We provide clear, practical advice to help clients understand their position, protect their interests and resolve matters as efficiently as possible.
Overview
The end of a relationship often involves complex legal and financial issues. Decisions made at this stage can have long-term consequences.
We advise on all aspects of relationship property and separation, including the division of assets, ownership structures, trusts, business interests and ongoing financial arrangements. Our approach is to provide clear, measured advice and to resolve matters in a way that is both practical and legally sound.
Where possible, we focus on achieving agreement without the need for Court proceedings. Where that is not possible, we provide experienced representation.
Our Experience
We act on a wide range of matters, including:
- Division of relationship property under the Property (Relationships) Act
- Contracting out agreements
- Trust and company interests within relationship property disputes
- Business and investment asset division
- Claims involving separate property and economic disparity
- Spousal maintenance and financial arrangements
- Urgent applications and dispute resolution proceedings
We regularly act in matters involving significant and complex asset structures.
Early advice and strategy
Early advice is critical.
We assist clients to:
- Understand their legal position and entitlements
- Identify relationship and separate property
- Assess risks and likely outcomes
- Develop a clear strategy for resolution
Division of assets
We advise on all aspects of property division, including:
- Residential and investment property
- Business interests and shareholdings
- Trust structures and trust assets
- Rural and farming assets
- Investments, KiwiSaver and financial assets
Our focus is on achieving a fair and workable outcome.
Contracting out agreements
We prepare and advise on contracting out agreements, including:
- Pre-relationship agreements
- Agreements entered into during a relationship
- Post-separation agreements
These agreements can provide certainty and protect assets when properly structured.
Negotiation and resolution
Many matters can be resolved without Court involvement.
We assist with:
- Negotiated settlements
- Structured agreements between parties
- Mediation and alternative dispute resolution
We aim to resolve matters efficiently while protecting our clients’ interests.
Court proceedings
Where agreement cannot be reached, Court involvement may be required.
We provide advice and representation in:
- Family Court proceedings
- Urgent applications
- Interim relief applications
- Enforcement of agreements and orders
Who We Act For
We act for:
- Individuals separating or considering separation
- Clients with complex asset structures
- Business owners and professionals
- Farming and rural clients
- Individuals seeking to protect assets through agreements
Why Checketts McKay
We offer:
- Extensive experience in relationship property matters
- A clear and pragmatic approach
- Strong understanding of complex asset structures
- A focus on early resolution where appropriate
- Experienced representation where matters proceed to Court
We understand that these matters are often sensitive. Our role is to provide clear, steady advice and to guide clients through the process with confidence.
