Katy RosserThe truth is, most of us never expect to need a divorce lawyer. Life throws you a curveball, love fades, priorities shift… and suddenly you’re facing a legal labyrinth you never thought you’d navigate.
That was the case for my aunt a year ago, blindsided and overwhelmed. Finding the right divorce lawyer for her felt like searching for a beacon in a fog. But let me tell you, the right legal guidance can make a world of difference.
So the team and I did our research and talked to friends and past clients about all the very best divorce lawyers in Auckland. At the end of it all, we came up with a fantastic list of options for my aunt.
Here’s that very same list, fleshed out with the grades we gave each one when comparing them.
| How much does a divorce lawyer in Auckland cost? Divorce lawyers in Auckland often charge clients at least 300 NZD per hour. Depending on the lawyer’s experience, this fee may increase. This estimate also doesn’t include court filing fees. |
How We Chose
1. Jeremy Sutton New Zealand
Address: Bastion Chambers Level 3/70 Shortland Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact Details:+6493094647
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 5 PM
Jeremy has over 20 years of experience under his belt, specialising in those high-net-worth, financially complex cases. Trusts, businesses, investment portfolios—you name it, he’s seen it. This expertise could be a lifesaver if you’re dealing with significant assets.
We also observed Jeremy’s focus on a pragmatic approach. He prioritises getting his clients a fair outcome quickly and efficiently.
But he goes beyond just the legal stuff. He’s an accredited mediator, trained in collaborative practice. Basically, he has a toolbox full of options to help you and your ex reach an agreement outside of the courtroom. This saves a tonne of money in the long run.
And we also noted that Jeremy takes a more hands-on approach, which is great for those who need guidance – but it might not be ideal for those who prefer a more collaborative process.
However, since he takes on a select few cases at a time, his experience comes at a cost. So, for those facing a more straightforward divorce with fewer assets, he might not be the most budget-friendly option.
Pros
- Over 20 years experience
- Quick and efficient outcomes
- Accredited mediator
Cons
- Limited cases
- Not budget-friendly
Customer Reviews
Admirable professionalism
“My experience with Jeremy and his dedicated team was an absolute pleasure in a very disconcerting time. I was under immense stress but the professionalism by Jeremy and his team was admirable and kept me confident. Jeremy gave me options and I was grateful for this.”
– Cbaz Wilson, Google Reviews
Quick communication and great team
“Jeremy guided me through what was a very challenging process and was honest in explaining what I was entitled to, with quick communication. He has a good team. I had previously been with another lawyer who retired mid-case, and I can only say I wish I had gone with Jeremy from the beginning.”
– Debby Bain, Google Reviews
2. MBC Law
Address: Level 1/101 Main Highway, Ellerslie, Auckland 1051, New Zealand
Contact Details: +6493771804
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
John, the principal lawyer at MBC Law, is the real deal. The first thing we noted was that he took the time to explain things in a way that was easy to understand, even for folks who aren’t legal whizzes.
And one of our biggest pet peeves when dealing with lawyers is the disappearing act. Not here! John kept his clients in the loop throughout the entire process.
We liked how he responded to emails and calls promptly, which is a major plus when you’re constantly worried about the next step. We also thought it was great that MBC Law laid out their fees clearly from the get-go, which was a breath of fresh air.
Every client we spoke to mentioned there were no surprise invoices, which is great as no one wants financial stress on top of emotional stress during a divorce.
Now while the service itself was top-notch, we thought MBC Law’s website could definitely use a refresh. It felt a bit outdated and didn’t quite capture the warm and professional vibe we experienced through our in person observations.
Pros
- Keeps clients in the loop
- Prompt communication
- No surprise invoices
Cons
- Outdated website
Customer Reviews
Recommend for any of your legal needs
“I found John and his team at MBC LAW a pleasure to deal with both personally and in the professional way that they conduct their business. I would use them again and highly recommend this team for any of your legal needs.”
– Craig Dabner, Google Reviews
Quality advice and competitive fees
“Professional organisation with quality advice and competitive fees. Friendly, helpful team—highly recommend.”
– Bruce Taylor, Google Reviews
3. McVeagh Fleming
Address: Level 9/188 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact Details: +6493779966
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
McVeagh Fleming has long been known for their amazing divorce lawyers, who are absolute pros, so you can be sure they will fight tooth and nail for what you deserve.
The company isn’t a one-man show. You’ll have an entire team of legal minds working on your case, researching like bloodhounds, and strategizing like chess masters.
And from what we have heard from past clients, their lawyers are tight-lipped and will treat your situation with the utmost confidentiality.
But let’s cut to the chase: their expertise is by and large at a hefty premium. Be prepared for hefty hourly rates and potentially high retainer fees. If you’re on a tight budget, this might not be the best fit.
And if your divorce is relatively straightforward, McVeagh-Fleming may be overkill. Their expertise is in complex cases with significant assets or child custody battles.
Pros
- Entire team of strategizers
- Child custody and complex divorce battles
- Client confidentiality
Cons
- Not for simple divorce cases
- Hefty hourly rates
Customer Reviews
Professional and reliable lawyers
“Lu and John has been a pleasure to work. As I do a lot of property and trust related matters all the time which can get quite complex at times, I needed a team of professional and reliable lawyers who can deal with the legal side of things very efficiently and promptly and they have exceeded my expectations!!”
– Haihao Zhang, Google Reviews
Clear in service, cost and dependable lawyers
“John Burley, Kiren Narayan, Mary George, Kai Lin Chiu and the team; thank you. From the very start in initial contact, enquiry and engagement of their services, John and Kiren were very clear in their service, cost and outcome. I was looked after by a team and the experience, receiving daily updates, made me fully reassured that they were “taking care of business”. Mary was always in communication with “what was happening” and grateful for the very positive outcome. Having never met a single one of them in person during lockdown, their verbal contact was reasurring. Very dependable, I would highly recommend them. Thank you for your time and being there for me. A warm Christmas and blessing be upon you all. 10/10”
– St. Julian, Google Reviews
4. McCabe Family Law
Address: 300 Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland 1021, New Zealand
Contact Details: +6493603262
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 5 PM
As luck would have it, we got to speak with a few friends who’ve used McCabe Family Law. The lawyers at McCabe Family Law took the time to understand their case’s unique context, from their family background to their financial concerns.
And from what we’ve been told, their lawyers explained things in clear, easy-to-understand language. Our friends said they especially liked how responsive the lawyers were, which went a long way in reducing stress during those hectic times.
While McCabe Family Law will fight for your rights in court if necessary, many thought it was great that their lawyers prioritised finding amicable solutions whenever possible. That’s good for saving time, money, and a whole lot of emotional turmoil.
However, keep in mind that McCabe Family Law focuses solely on family law. So, they might not be ideal if you have other legal needs arising from the divorce, such as property division beyond the scope of family law.
Also, being a smaller firm, McCabe Family Law probably won’t have the same resources as a larger firm. This could be a drawback if your case is particularly complex or high-profile.
Pros
- Responsive lawyers
- Finds amicable solutions
Cons
- Family law only
- Smaller firm
Customer Reviews
Sound advice and fair rates
“Elise helped me navigate an extremely difficult period of my life. Her advice was sound and I believe the rates she charged were very fair for the result I achieved. Strongly recommend.”
– James Thorpe, Google Reviews
Professional and insightful lawyer
“Highly recommend Elise, she is friendly and experienced 🙂 Her wider team are easy to work with, conveyancing was also a breeze. Appreciated Elise’s professionalism and insight when dealing with tricky and complicated matters. Billing was monthly, made it easy. Thanks! Will come back in the future.”
– Berg, Google Reviews
5. Turner Hopkins
Address: Level 1, 1/7 The Strand, Takapuna, Auckland 0622, New Zealand
Contact Details: +6494862169
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
One of the things their clients raved about to us was the experience all the lawyers at Turner Hopkins have. Their lawyers were also described as giving solid legal advice and they knowing how to navigate the Auckland court system.
Now, while experience is a plus, it could also mean a bit of a machine-like approach. Our client mentioned feeling like just another case file at times. So if you’re looking for a super-chummy, hand-holding lawyer, this might not be the best fit.
Additionally, our client particularly appreciated Turner Hopkins’ focus on finding a solution for both parties involved whenever possible. Their lawyers helped negotiate a fair settlement that kept things civil.
But divorce ain’t cheap, and Turner Hopkins isn’t known for bargain-basement prices. So be prepared to discuss fees upfront and make sure you’re comfortable with the cost before going with them.
Pros
- Fair and civil settlements
- Solid legal advice
Cons
- Machine-like approach at times
- Expensive rates
Customer Reviews
Very professional and kind lawyers
“I am very grateful for the professional and kind help Jade provided during a challenging time. Jade helped me go through those difficulties. I truly appreciate the great assistance from Jade and her colleagues. Highly recommended.”
– James C, Google Reviews
Compassionate and trustworthy lawyers
“Highly recommended lawyer Kate Chivers! She is exceptionally good at what she does and delivers on time. Seldom can one come across a not only professional but also compassionate towards her clients like Kate! I’m so lucky to meet Kate, and I recommend Kate to anyone who needs a trustworthy lawyer!!”
– Jet Fighter, Google Reviews
