Family Lawyer Auckland - Clear, Compassionate Guidance

 Expert legal guidance for all family matters, including dissolution of marriage, separation, parenting matters, prenuptial agreements, estate planning and everything in between.

Talk to a Family Lawyer in Auckland Today!

Our Family Law Services in Auckland

Navigating family law matters requires sensitivity, legal expertise, and a clear understanding of your rights. Our experienced family lawyers in Auckland offer a comprehensive range of legal services — from day-to-day care arrangements to separation agreements and estate planning. Whether you’re facing family court proceedings or need independent legal advice, our family law team delivers practical advice and expert guidance tailored to your situation.

Dissolution of marriage & Separation

We guide you through the legal process of dissolution of marriage and separation with clarity and care. Our Auckland family lawyers help you understand your entitlements, file necessary documents, and manage any connected matters like property, children, or spousal maintenance. Whether through mediation or court, we aim to reduce stress and help you move forward with confidence.

Children & Parenting Matters

We assist with guardianship, day-to-day care arrangements, and adoption. Our Auckland family lawyers help you understand your rights and responsibilities while prioritising the best interests of your child. If needed, we can support you through family court and day-to-day care proceedings with clarity, empathy, and strong legal representation.

Relationship Property

When a relationship ends, dividing assets can be challenging. We offer clear advice on property division and separation agreements to help you avoid conflict. Our experienced lawyers provide informed decisions based on the latest developments in Auckland family law and are backed by the New Zealand Law Society.

Spousal Maintenance

We offer guidance on spousal maintenance entitlements and obligations, ensuring fairness for both parties. Whether through negotiation or court proceedings, we aim to achieve the best outcome. We provide practical advice that considers both family and financial realities, especially when there are complex assets, income disparities, or shared financial responsibilities involved.

Family Violence Protection

In cases involving domestic violence, we act swiftly, discreetly, and with compassion. Our family lawyers will support you through protection order applications and court proceedings, prioritising your safety and well-being at every step. You can count on us to protect your rights and provide strong, respectful representation when you need it most.

Estate & Trust Disputes

We provide trusted advice in legal matters related to wills, estates, and trusts. Whether disputes arise in the High Court or during mediation, we help clients resolve issues effectively. Our legal expertise lies in managing complex family law matters involving multiple family members, contentious probate and estate disputes, and long-term asset protection across generations.

Talk to a Family Lawyer in Auckland Today!

What Our Clients Say about our Auckland Law Firm

  • Client Testimonial

    I am writing in regards with my experience as a client of James Nolen. After the first meeting with James, my impression was that he was knowledgeable, quick learning and reassuring. He has been working on a case for me over 12 months. I would love to recommend him to any of my friends if they need a good lawyer for the following reasons. 

    Good Communication Skills: James has great both oral articulating and writing skills. He speaks and writes clearly, concisely, and persuasively.

    Good Judgement and Analytical Skills: James is very good at drawing logical conclusions and making critical assumptions from limited/or extensive large quantities of information. He is always attentive to details and able to spot points of weakness in oppositions arguments and situations.

    Creativity and Pragmatism: James always shows high level of creativity and is pragmatic in problem-solving. He can persuade clients to take emotion out of the equation to achieve best outcome from very complicated situations.

    (Derek, Western Properties)

  • Client Testimonial

    I have had the pleasure of using Jeff Walters at Nolen Walters for my many developments for many years. Jeff has an absolute understanding of how to interpret my requirements and expedite them in a fast and professional way. My legal matters can be comprehensive, and I have found the speed and integrity of Jeff’s services to be very high, with my fees being extremely fair. The rest of the friendly team are always welcoming, and I would be more than happy to recommend Jeff and his team.


    (Brett, Smart Developments Auckland)

  • Client Testimonial

    Margaret Chen was an outstanding lawyer who provided invaluable assistance with a complex lawsuit involving cross-border issues. Her dual qualifications proved to be extremely beneficial. I would highly recommend her to anyone in need of her expertise.

    (Anne, Business Owner, Hong Kong)

  • Client Testimonial

    We had opportunities to work with Jeff Walters and his team on multiple subdivision and construction projects. I have to say the number of experiences and professions that Jeff and his team have are really benefitting us. And it’s not only from the operational point of view also commercial outcome, especially when your legal matter was complicated. They just always know what client’s needs then deliver what you expected, and not only once, but repeatedly. We will highly recommend Jeff and his team to anyone we know. They are the ones who can really give you the” peace of mind”.

    (Frank, Sure Capital Group)

  • Client Testimonial

    I had the privilege of working with Dala Oh on a complex estate dispute involving assets across multiple countries, intense emotions, and extensive documents in Mandarin Chinese. Her bilingual skills and cultural fluency were invaluable. She identified critical translation errors in key evidence, uncovering issues that changed the case’s outcome. Beyond her sharp legal mind, Dala’s emotional intelligence was a guiding force, helping me navigate this difficult time with composure, clarity, and calm. I can’t recommend her highly enough.

    (Lee, Property Developer, Auckland)

  • Client Testimonial

    We had purchased a business that, unbeknownst to us, had guaranteed a third party. When this third party subsequently went into liquidation, the financier came after us in a situation where we had very little leverage or information. James as a litigator, communicated extraordinarily well with the financier’s legal counsel and bought us time and significant concessions. Through the whole process he was prompt and all over the detail. Unlike many professional, James’s follow up, to ensure the everything got closed out properly, was fantastic. Finally, his fees for the whole process were very reasonable.

    (Matt Currie)

  • Client Testimonial

    Dala Oh was a lifesaver during one of the hardest times in my life. From day one, she made me feel heard, supported, and confident in my case. She guided me with clear advice, fought hard for me in Court, and truly had my best interest at heart. Thanks to her dedication and expertise, I got a great outcome. If you need a lawyer who is both skilled and compassionate, this is the super hero you want by your side.

    (Sarah, Business Owner, Auckland)

  • Client Testimonial

    My name is Bruce and I have been a client for James Nolen since 2015. He has helped with many matters, and he has always been able to find the best solution and achieve the best outcome for me. He is very thorough, and he always put the client's best interest first and he also looks after the client's fee and allows generous time for me to pay off his fee while I was having financial hardship, and while I was going through the litigation with the other party. He is a great lawyer and a great human being. I strongly recommend him, and he is deserved to be awarded as Client Choice.

    (Bruce Lee, CEO, Western Properties)

  • Client Testimonial

    I have used James Nolen, together with other members of his team on various matters over a number of years, ranging from relatively straight forward commercial matters to highly complex High Court applications, which essentially involved rewriting legislation to cater to circumstances not provided for in existing law. The solutions provided to the issues at hand, were always sensible and pragmatic, and to date, happily, always successful. I have no hesitation in recommending James and his team, regardless of the degree of complexity involved when you are looking for cost effective and timely advice.

    (Chris Horton, Auckland)

  • Client Testimonial

    Peter Sargent was already acting as our legal advisor for some years.  Peter has assisted us in general conveyancing matters in respect to our Family Trust and personally, in several sales and purchases of property, and property related matters.  In every instance we have found Peter readily accessible, responsive, thorough, and effective. Given our experiences with Peter and his team, we highly recommend him.  Quite apart from his professional ability to grasp the detail and nuances of legal issues we’ve been involved with; we also enjoy Peter’s company on the occasions we’ve encountered him on a personal level.

    (Shane and Richard Compton)

  • Client Testimonial

    I have engaged Peter Sargent on many occasions concerning property acquisitions, tenancies, and other commercial matters. Peter has delivered excellent service and advice on each of these occasions. Peter listens operators carefully to our requirements each time prior to giving his considered advice His accuracy and knowledge has meant that we have always managed the process efficiently minimising any costly delays. Peter’s commitment and high level of integrity has given us comfort and security, and in every instance to date he has delivered successful outcomes.

    (Glenn Cotterill, Director Owner/ Operator of PAK’nSAVE Lincoln Road)

About Nolen Walters Law Firm

More than legal support — we’re with you for life’s most personal legal matters.

At Nolen Walters, we know that family law isn’t just legal — it’s deeply personal. As a trusted Auckland firm, we help individuals and families navigate complex matters like separation, parenting, trusts, and estates with clarity and empathy.

Our experienced family law team offers tailored advice and strong representation, whether you’re dealing with a dissolution of marriage, day-to-day care dispute, or planning for the future. We regularly appear in the Family Court, High Court, and mediation, ensuring your interests are protected at every stage.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all legal solutions. From contracting out agreements to complex family court litigation, we deliver legal support that’s both strategic and compassionate.

We have a multicultural team of English and Mandarin speakers and a strong reputation for serving the NZ Chinese market. With staff and a trusted network in China, we support both domestic and international Chinese clients with confidence and cultural fluency.

Nolen Walters also partners with leading specialists in tax, trusts and estates, IP, employment, immigration, and securities law — giving you access to full-service legal expertise, all in one place.

Learn About Nolen Walters Team

Talk to a Leading Family Lawyer in Auckland

You don’t need to have all the answers. Whether you're navigating a separation, need clarity on day-to-day care of your child, or want to protect your assets for the future, we’re here to help.

Our family law team offers trusted legal advice grounded in experience, empathy, and results. Let’s talk! We provide practical family law advice with clear, confident steps forward.

Contact Nolen Walters for Trusted Legal Advice

Frequently Asked Legal Questions in Auckland

  • Family lawyer fees in New Zealand can vary based on the nature of the legal issue, the complexity of the case, and the experience of the lawyer. Hourly rates typically range from $250 to $500, with more complex matters such as court proceedings or property disputes often requiring more time and expertise.

  • While you can represent yourself, a lawyer provides valuable support during Family Court proceedings. They help with applications, evidence, and matters like child support or a protection order. Legal representation ensures your top priority — your rights and wellbeing — are properly protected throughout.

  • A family lawyer in New Zealand helps you navigate legal matters related to relationships and family life, including contracting out agreements, separation, parenting arrangements, and property disputes. They provide expert tailored advice, help resolve conflicts through mediation and represent you in the Family Court or High Court when needed. At Nolen Walters, we support families across Auckland by protecting their rights and working towards the best possible outcome.

  • Look for a lawyer with proven experience in the area you need help with — whether that's separation, relationship property, parenting disputes, or spousal maintenance. The best family lawyers are not only legally skilled but also good communicators who listen, explain your options clearly, and act in your best interests. At Nolen Walters, we combine strategic advice with practical support to guide you through even the most challenging family matters.