Expertise
Family law
Expert, empathetic family lawyers
Navigating family law matters can be complicated and stressful, and the right advice from the right lawyers can make all the difference.
Whether we are helping you resolve a dispute through negotiation or formally acting for you in the Family Court, Ford Sumner’s experienced family lawyers will make sure you always understand your options and the best path forward.
Alongside helping manage Relationship property issues, we can assist with parenting arrangements, protection orders and child support issues with clear, pragmatic, cost-effective advice and advocacy. We will help you not just to survive the process but get an outcome for you and your family that’s as practical and durable as possible.
Our family law services
Resolving disputes
Our family law team are skilled in all forms of dispute resolution, including negotiation and mediation. We provide you with cost-effective options for resolving your issue without the expense and stress of going to court.
Family dispute resolution: compulsory mediation
If you are attending Family Dispute Resolution, Ford Sumner can help you prepare by explaining the process, clarifying your legal position, and advising on the issues likely to arise. We support you before, during, and after mediation so you can approach the process informed and well prepared.
Going to the Family Court
Where court proceedings are necessary, Ford Sumner can provide clear legal advice, prepare the required documentation, and represent you throughout the Family Court process. We work to ensure your case is presented effectively and that you understand each step along the way.
Child Support and spousal maintenance
We can assist with negotiating and documenting child support arrangements, including private agreements between parents. We also provide advice and representation on spousal maintenance claims, whether through negotiation or applications to the Family Court where required.
Protection orders
Ford Sumner can advise on urgent protection options available under the Family Violence Act and assist with applying for protection orders. We also help clients navigate related issues involving children, occupation of the family home, and other immediate legal protections.
Parenting arrangements and guardianship
Our family law team can assist with putting in place practical parenting arrangements following separation, including day-to-day care, contact, and broader guardianship matters. We provide advice, negotiation support, and representation where needed to help resolve disputes and protect the best interests of your children.
Reach out to our team for expert guidance, empathetic support, and practical solutions for your situation.
Meet the family law team
Our empathetic team will guide you through every step of the legal process with clear advice, strong advocacy, and practical solutions.
Joanne Cheer
Nikita Govind
Emma Jackson
Bella Chapman
How to get started
Family law matters can feel daunting, but we’re here to make the issues and the process as straightforward as possible.
To get started, contact us for a confidential consultation. In this first meeting we will assess your circumstances, explain your options, and outline the best path forward.
News and insights
Latest updates on family law issues
At Ford Sumner, we are a committed part of New Zealand’s business sector and local communities. We keep a watchful eye for relevant legislative and regulatory changes, and we regularly write and share updates on what these changes will mean in practice for our clients.
So check in regularly with this part of our website, and subscribe to our newsletters.
It’s not just the house: intellectual
The Supreme Court has confirmed that copyright in artworks created during a marriage is relationship property under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 (PRA). The decision...
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New Law to Stop Abusive Use
Some people misuse the court system not to solve real disputes, but as a tactic to harass, control, or intimidate others. This is called litigation...
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Fast-track dissolution for family violence survivors:
The Family Proceedings (Dissolution of Marriage or Civil Union for Family Violence) Amendment Act 2024 allows people with a final protection order against their spouse to dissolve...
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