Client Care & Service Information

At Canterbury Legal, our Christchurch lawyers are committed to delivering professional, clear, and
responsive legal services to individuals, families, businesses, and organisations throughout Canterbury and
New Zealand.

This page explains what you can expect from us and your rights as a client.

Our commitment to you

When you engage Canterbury Legal, we will:
● Act competently, promptly, and in accordance with your instructions
● Protect and promote your interests
● Provide independent and objective legal advice
● Treat you with respect, fairness, and courtesy
● Keep you informed of significant developments in your matter
● Charge fees that are fair and reasonable
● Protect your confidential information

Our lawyers are regulated by the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act 2006 and are bound by the Lawyers:
Conduct and Client Care Rules issued by the New Zealand Law Society.

Communication

We understand that clear communication is central to good legal service.

We aim to:
● Respond to calls and emails promptly
● Explain legal issues in plain English
● Outline your options and likely outcomes
● Keep you informed of progress in your matter
● Discuss fees and expected costs at the outset
If you are unsure about any aspect of your matter, please contact the lawyer responsible for your file.

Fees and billing

Our legal fees may be structured as:
● Fixed fees
● Hourly rates
● Or a combination of both

Before commencing work, we will provide information about how your fees will be calculated and the likely
cost of your matter where possible.

Invoices will clearly set out:
● Work completed
● Time recorded
● Disbursements and third-party expenses
● GST

Confidentiality and privacy

We treat all client information as confidential and will not disclose it unless authorised by you or required by
law.

We are committed to protecting your personal information in accordance with New Zealand privacy
legislation.

Trust account

Canterbury Legal operates a trust account in accordance with the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act 2006
and associated regulations.

Funds received on your behalf are held securely and managed in accordance with strict regulatory
requirements.

Your right to raise concerns

If you are unhappy with any aspect of our service, we encourage you to raise your concerns promptly so
we can work toward a fair resolution.

Details of our complaints process can be found here.