A Contracting Out Agreement is essentially a legal agreement between a couple that says: “We want to decide for ourselves how our property will be treated, rather than relying entirely on the default rules under the Property (Relationships) Act.” It allows couples to “contract out” of the standard equal-sharing rules which sounds very formal and dramatic, but in reality it is often just a practical conversation about expectations and fairness.

When two or more people buy property together in New Zealand, they must decide how the property will be legally owned. The two main options are joint tenancy and tenancy in common. Each can have major consequences for couples, families, and relationship property disputes. In family law matters — including separation, estate planning, and blended families — the way a property is owned can significantly affect what happens to the home or investment property.

Hearing about Miranda and Simon helping their daughter buy a home, I quickly switched into lawyer mode and started raining on Miranda, Simon and Miria’s parade. “What will happen if Miria’s boyfriend ends up moving in?” “Have you considered how you would feel if Miria, one day, separates from her future spouse or partner and they end up with half of the house and hence half your gift?”. My questions rolled on as the colour drained from Miranda’s face and her glass rapidly g

Legal costs can feel daunting, particularly more so if you are going through the uncertainty of a separation or legal dispute, so you are best to be upfront about costs right at the beginning of your dealings with a lawyer. There are guidelines and rules about what lawyers can charge and there are things you can do to reduce your costs. Below are some of my top tips for managing and being proactive about your legal costs