There’s always a moment in a breakup when things shift—from emotional to logistical. Sometimes, it starts with splitting the kitchenware or debating who actually owns the dog.

When things reach that point, having the right divorce lawyer makes all the difference. You don’t always need a dramatic courtroom showroom, but you do need someone who understands what’s at stake and can guide you through it with clarity and care.

If you’re in Christchurch and looking for legal support, this list features some of the city’s best divorce lawyers. These professionals are known for balancing empathy with strong legal expertise when it matters most, so you can absolutely trust them.

1. Summit Law Christchurch

Summit Law caught our attention for their people-first mindset. They’re known to handle divorce cases with empathy, making them a solid choice for those navigating emotionally charged situations.

One of our teammates scheduled an undercover consultation, and what stood out from the first conversation was how clear and respectful the lawyers and staff are. 

When asked about relationship property division under New Zealand law, they broke things down in a way that’s easy to follow and didn’t feel overly technical.

After speaking with a few of their former clients, we were impressed with how much Summit Law stays involved. From the early stages of consultation to documentation and final agreements, they provided steady support.

The directors have also built a reputation for being steady and experienced—something that seems to make a real difference for clients going through a tough time.

We also really love that they place a strong emphasis on collaborative outcomes. This can be really helpful if both parties are aiming to keep things amicable.

That said, if the situation is more contentious and you’re looking for a firmer legal strategy, their calm and measured approach might not be the right fit.

Genuinely client-focused

“Very professional service and I was made to feel like I really mattered. The help I received and the manner in which it was dealt with really put me at ease and I couldn’t have asked for more.

I would highly recommend to anybody”

• Daniel Ford, Google Review

Friendly yet highly professional

“An excellent and very professional law firm. Naahi is such a relaxed friendly lawyer who is also extremely knowledgeable and professional also.”

• Ross Ambler, Google Review

2. Weston Ward & Lascelles

Weston Ward & Lascelles has been part of Christchurch’s legal scene for well over a century, so we set out to see how that legacy holds up in their current family law services.

After speaking with several former clients, what stood out most was the way they combine a steady approach with a good level of empathy. Their focus tends to be on finding practical solutions—often aiming to resolve things without going to court.

However, if things do escalate, we heard they’re just as capable when it comes to stepping into a courtroom.

The level of coordination, from directors to associates, is also impressive. The family law department is led by senior lawyers with decades of experience, so the structure feels well-organized and efficient.

Their practices also touch on many areas, from relationship property and prenups to mediation and protection orders. This comprehensive scope helps streamline the process, giving clients the impression that everything is handled under one roof.

That said, working with a full-service team like theirs may cost more than going with a smaller or newer firm.

Exceptional, compassionate service

“Best Family Court Lawyers in Christchurch hands down!!!

Highly recommend Ryan O’Connor. He goes above & beyond for his clients. & really cares about the well-being & safety of children. He listens, and he’s on to it. A beacon of hope for any family situation. Couldn’t have asked for better in a Lawyer.

The man! Thank you.”

• Shahna Hira, Google Review

Professional, supportive guidance

“I came to Weston ward & Lancelles for legal help.

The help they gave me was extraordinary!!! Very professional and with a lot of concern throughout my entire process!

They guided me well and defended me very well.

I had legal help with Rosa Bellolio (family and immigration lawyer) and Constanza González (legal executive).

I recommend 100% their advice.

I thank you enormously for all your help and advocacy throughout my process.”

• Antonieta Lobos Alvarez, Google Review

3. Wynn Williams

Wynn Williams has been part of Christchurch’s legal scene since 1859, so it’s no surprise that their name tends to come up often in conversations about family law.

We got to know them more after a colleague worked with them during a separation. They take a discreet, mediation-first approach that appears to set the tone across their divorce work.

From what we gathered, the team works with quiet confidence—organized, respectful, and focused on avoiding escalation where possible.

They also offer solid coverage across typical family law matters: relationship property, prenups, and representation if things do end up in court.

We appreciate that their team is experienced across the board, with a clear structure that gives clients access to both senior expertise and more hands-on junior support. This setup helps keep communication streamlined and prevents delays.

That said, their more traditional setup can come off as quite normal, and things like IT systems aren’t the quickest. It’s reliable, but not exactly fast-moving—something to consider if you’re after a more agile experience.

Reliable team

“Solid legal advice from a great team”

• Richard Hayes, Google Review

Excellent legal expertise

“Excellent lawyers. Highly recommend them.”

• Tobias Preston, Google Review

4. Corcoran French Lawyers

Corcoran French Lawyers made it to our list for their ability to combine over 130 years of legal experience with a personal, client-focused approach—something that stood out early on.

They’ve got the usual family divorce and family law services—like help with property splits, mediation, and going to court if it comes to that. However, it doesn’t feel like a giant firm where you’d get lost in the system.

A few folks we talked to mentioned that the lawyers were easy to talk to and actually listened, which made a stressful situation feel a bit more manageable.

From what we picked up, they’re also pretty upfront about costs and timelines, which takes a bit of the guesswork out. Their whole vibe seems practical and grounded—good if you’re not into drama and just want things handled properly.

That said, their mid-sized setup does have some limitations. They might not offer the same around-the-clock availability or access to niche specialists that bigger firms can provide.

Exceptionally skilled and friendly service

“A big thank you to Maria for all her help, she is absolutely excellent and I would recommend her to anyone. She really is so skilled at her profession and so friendly. We were recommended her from a friend and as soon as I reached out (after hours) she called me back immediately and got everything in sorted so quickly. Will will definitely be using her again. The most positive experience we have ever had. Thank you Maria!!”

• Lara Macdonald, Google Review

Professional and consistently reliable

“Professional, friendly staff. Very good at letting you make your own decision and give the guidance that is needed. I have used their services several times and no matter what is needed are able to enable you to arrive at a satisfactory conclusion. Will definitely go to again.”

• lori vee, Google Review

5. Saunders & Co Lawyers

What we like about Saunders & Co. Lawyers is how they manage to stay approachable while still bringing solid legal know-how to the table.

During our undercover consultation, their team took time to explain things without rushing. The whole interaction felt focused on reducing stress rather than adding to it.

When we talked to their previous clients, one thing that stood out was how they walk clients through their options without pushing a particular path, whether that means mediation or going to court.

They handled cases like Mauger v Mauger, where they successfully argued for an unequal property split. This case showed they can manage complex disputes when a 50/50 split doesn’t quite fit.

Clients also appreciated their clear, no-nonsense guidance—no sugarcoating, just practical next steps.

One thing to note: the firm was involved in a trust account fraud case back in the late ‘90s. It’s been resolved, but still something to be aware of, especially for high-value cases.

Confident, experienced, and patient

“Many thanks to Adele and Cameron for their fabulous job to handle a critical case with confidence and made it successful with their experience and hard work. I was so impatient sometimes because it was so stressful to handle. But they both gave me confidence and handled it all with patience and finally got positive result. Will be back to you guys soon. 😊”

• simran jeet, Google Review

Skilled and personable

“Best Exp. Ever ,Specially best lawyer ever Adele mitchell brillant lawyer with Awesom skills.”

• Yatinder Sharma, Google Review

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