DIY Law: Should you take the leap?

2 February 2021

If you are experiencing strife in your family life and are at the stage where you need to or want to make your position legal, you most likely have had thoughts about saving money and doing the legal work yourself. You are not the first person to, and you will not be the last.

‘The only winners are the lawyers’ is a phrase people like to use whenever hiring a lawyer is discussed, and this mindset is typically a catalyst for people to do their own legal work. After all, Law is just about dotting the i’s and dotting the t’s, right?

I can Google how to do my own family law

The internet is a vast library of information. There are tutorials, how-to XYZ guides and online legal articles for searchers to consume. However, there is no guarantee the articles you take advice are written by experienced New Zealand Family Lawyers or even refer to the most up to date laws.

At Weston Ward & Lascelles, our Family Law specialists undertake years of studying Law which is continued throughout their career to keep up with changes to legislation. This is so important. What may seem like a minor amendment can have far reaching emotional and financial consequences. Hiring a Family Lawyer means you are paying for years of experience and expertise.

I know my case better than anyone else

You do, and you most likely have experienced traumatic and upsetting events or suffered family harm that has brought you to seek a legal solution but, and it’s a big but, you will look at everything to do with your case through a lens of strong emotions. Emotions have a habit of clouding judgement.

A Family Lawyer is more than a box ticker; they have a duty of care for you and work in your best interests – they have no ulterior motives, are not swayed by family politics and are not out to seek revenge. Your Family Lawyer’s mission is to get the best legal outcome for you - to protect you and your family for now and the future.

I’ve negotiated a good deal by myself

It’s always great news when people are open to negotiation. It makes settlements far easier to achieve – but what if one party is more vulnerable than the other? The temptation is to accept a deal to get a clean break, but often people who represent themselves in family matters unintentionally do themselves a disservice.

It’s best to get your family matter concluded correctly the first-time round. Too often there are oversights, omissions and errors that require a trip to Court further down the line – and more legal expenses to right the wrongs. Through years of experience, our Family Lawyers know what a good deal looks like and ensure their clients achieve a fair and just settlement.

Doing your own Law often results in justice not being served. There is nothing equitable about being short-changed. Whether it’s dividing relationship property, legally ending your marriage or civil union with a Dissolution Order, or agreeing child support, instructing the best Family Lawyer for your circumstances should be a priority.

Weston Ward & Lascelles’ Christchurch Family Lawyers provide supportive, cost-effective, and high-quality legal advice to our clients. We are passionate about helping people achieve the best possible outcome for their current and future circumstances. Contact us today to see how we can help you.

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