FAQs

What free resources are available on tax and business information?

www.business.govt.nz

Can you provide an estimate of my settlement income?

Yes. We can provide a settlement estimate based on the information you provide at a given point in time. This may change when you get information from the other side during the discovery process or if valuations change (such as the value of property and shares).

Can you come with me to see my lawyer?

Yes. We can support you when you see your lawyer, either in person or virtually. We are also happy to work collaboratively with your lawyer.

Can you represent my partner as well?

This depends on how you structure things. Some couples choose to go down a Collaborative Resolution Process and their financial expert is appointed jointly. Other couples prefer to have appoint their advisers solely.

For more information on the Collaborative Resolution Process please see www.collaborativeresolution.org.nz

Can you give legal advice and do all the things a lawyer does in my separation?

There is a lot that a lawyer does that is not accounting territory, for example, property conveyancing and the Relationship Property Act s21A agreement (this is where partners settle differences by agreement). But we are more than happy to work with your lawyer with a goal of smoothly transitioning you to the other side.

Can you prepare financial statements, tax returns, and help with business advisory and relationship property?

This depends on the situation. As long as there is no Conflict of Interest we can help you with any services on this website. If you have a business with your partner and that is part of your separation, then it is important that you both have independent support. As part of our Code of Ethics, a member of the Chartered Accountants Australia/New Zealand is required to review their Engagements to consider whether they can act for you both. Depending on the situation, your current accountant may advise one of you to look for an alternative accountant. Each situation is unique and it needs to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Can you help keep my legal fees down by drafting letters for my lawyer and I to review?

Yes. We are happy to do this as long as your lawyer is also comfortable with this approach.