At ASCO Legal, we understand that family and personal law matters can be deeply personal and emotionally challenging. With extensive experience and a personable approach, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Trust us to navigate these sensitive times with professionalism and care.
We navigate delicate personal matters with empathy and expertise.
Our expertise includes preparing contracting out agreements, property sharing agreements, separations*, parenting agreements*, pet sharing agreements, and any form of arrangement for personal or business loans or arrangements between friends and family members.
ASCO Legal’s Service Offering:
Our experience and expertise includes:
Matrimonial Property "Contracting Out" Agreements (also known as Pre-nups/Prenuptial Agreements or Antenuptial Agreements): Navigating relationships and property can be complex, but a ‘Contracting Out Agreement’ can make it simpler and more secure. In New Zealand, these agreements, sometimes known as Pre-nups/Prenuptial Agreements or Antenuptial Agreements, allow couples to opt out of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976. They are tailored to fit your unique relationship, offering peace of mind and an effective tool for estate and asset planning.
Contrary to popular belief, these agreements are not just for couples facing uncertainty. Many happy, long-term partners use them to ensure clarity and security for the future. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with children from previous relationships who are entering a new partnership.
Whether you are just starting out or have an existing Contracting Out Agreement that needs review or adjustment, we are here to help.
If you need a relationship property lawyer in New Zealand, look no further. Let's secure your future together.
- Property Sharing: If you own or intend to purchase a property together, it's crucial to make sure you're on the same page. Whether you're buying with family, friends, or as a couple, sorting out the details early can save a lot of headaches later. Key issues to address include how the property is owned, who will make decisions about and pay for ongoing costs like insurance, rates, and renovations, who has the right to stay there, and what happens if one of you wants out. While you might be on great terms now, misunderstandings can arise if these matters aren't documented from the outset. Changes in circumstances, such as a death, separation, or job loss, can make these issues even more complex and emotionally charged.
- Separations*: Separating is never easy, but we are here to make it as pain-free as possible. Whether you've been together 6 months or 60 years, and whether you have a Contracting Out Agreement in place or not, we'll guide you through the necessary steps to understand your rights, resolve your issues, and move through your separation. Our goal is to help you move on with clarity and confidence. If your assets require the expertise of a property lawyer to assist with selling or refinancing—whether to each other or a third party—rest assured, we can help with that too.
- Parenting Agreements*: If you have minor children, it's important to have a clear agreement between parents. This agreement will outline who will care for the children daily, during special occasions, and who will make essential decisions about their medical care. It also covers how and when the children can travel with one of the parents or caregivers. There are many details to consider, and we are here to help you navigate these complexities with ease.
Pet Custody Agreements: Separating or living apart can be challenging, especially when deciding who will care for your beloved pets. At our firm, we understand that pets are important family members. We offer tailored Pet Custody Agreements for cats, dogs, rabbits, horses, and more.
Our agreements cover day-to-day care, handovers, special holidays, vet bills, grooming, and insurance. We are here to make the process as smooth and clear as possible, ensuring the best for you and your furry friends.
* We are most experienced and equipped with negotiating and resolving relationship separations and parenting matters where the parties are physically safe and reasonably amicable given the circumstances. If Court appearances, filing, or other such complexities are involved we will discuss the engagement of a suitable barrister to assist.
IF YOU ARE IN IMMEDIATE DANGER call 111 and ask for Police. If it is not safe to speak to the operator, then push 55 on a mobile (any number on a landline) to be put through to Police. If you need refuge or a plan of escape please contact organisations such as Shine or Women's Refuge for help. Please note that we cannot assist with your or your children's immediate protection from danger.