Question 1

I don’t live where you have an office, can you still help me?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We have worked with clients throughout NZ and around the world.
We have meeting rooms in Auckland, Christchurch and Central Otago but, with technology, we can meet you anywhere.

Question 2

May I bring someone with me to meet with you?

Accepted Answer

When you meet with us, you’re absolutely welcome to bring a friend, family member or coach for support and to be your second set of ears. We aim to ensure that meeting with us is as comfortable as possible for you.

Question 3

I don’t want things to get out of hand and blow up by seeing a lawyer. Is there a way to avoid that?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely there is! Every lawyer at Lighthouse Legal has undertaken specialised training in skills that mean, as much as possible, we can help keep the temperature down in any conflict or legal issue that our clients are facing. We strive to guide you towards a more respectful and amicable resolution than you may have seen played out with others (or on TV or films!). We don’t take any steps without your approval. We guide you through the different options you have, bearing in mind the reaction they may cause.

Question 4

Do you accept Legal Aid cases?

Accepted Answer

At this time, we are not able to provide Legal Aid services for new clients due to the amount of voluntary work we do.

Question 5

Do you appear in Court?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes. For adoption and surrogacy matters, appearing in Court is inevitable to get an adoption order made. Likewise, for paternity cases, the Court's assistance is often needed. Even in matters where agreements are reached, there may be times where Court orders must be obtained to give effect to those agreements.

If your matter cannot be resolved by agreement and where required, we can work with you to ensure you are well represented in Court.

Question 6

When is the best time to come and see you about my problem?

Accepted Answer

We find that clients who receive our assistance as early on as possible usually end up avoiding a lot of wasted time and money. For clients who are considering a separation, working with one of our recommended divorce coaches early on can help you get clarity in your next steps. By seeking assistance early on, our clients manage to avoid potential pitfalls in their legal matter that can come with leaving things for long.

Having said that, it is never too late to see us! We have helped clients who have been separated for 20+ years finally tidy up their property issues. We also have helped clients reach agreements when they were almost at the courtroom doors with a hearing date coming up.

Question 7

Do you offer fixed fees?

Accepted Answer

We realise clients want certainty about what steps possibly lie ahead of them in their case and how much each step will cost. Therefore, where possible, we offer fixed fees for steps in your matter.

When you first see us for your initial consultation, we can scope out what your legal issue requires and what the likely cost of this will be. In cases where a fixed fee cannot be offered, we endeavour to give you estimates along the way of the cost of your next steps.

Question 8

If I come to see you for a consultation, am I obliged to use your services?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely not. A first consultation with us is an ideal opportunity to test the waters and assess whether you think we will be the right team for you. While most people who come to see us choose to engage us either as their lawyer, mediator or coach, we understand that choosing professionals to work with is a vitally important decision. Therefore, you are not obliged to engage us after our initial meeting.

Question 9

Can I pay your fees when my relationship property matter is settled?

Accepted Answer

We usually invoice our fees monthly and payment is required within 7 days of invoice. However, we are accredited with Just Fund, a fee funding provider. Just Fund (https://justfund.co.nz)may be able to help you meet your legal fees while your relationship property matter is being sorted out. Let us know if this is something you are interested in knowing more about to help you alleviate financial pressures at this time.

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Here are the answers to the questions we often get about working with us

Want to get started on working with us – head on over here now for your free initial chat with us