Clear Advice.
Smooth Settlements. No Surprises.
Buying or selling property is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make.
Whether it’s your first home, an investment property, or a family sale, the legal process must be handled correctly — from contract review to settlement.
At Canterbury Legal, our Christchurch conveyancing lawyers guide buyers and sellers through every stage of the property transaction with clarity and efficiency.
What is Residential Conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of property from one party to another.
It includes:
- Reviewing and negotiating the Agreement for Sale and Purchase
- Advising on conditions (finance, LIM, building reports)
- Conducting due diligence
- Coordinating settlement
- Transferring title through Land Information New Zealand
Done properly, conveyancing protects your financial and legal position.
Buying Property.
When purchasing property, we:
- Review the agreement before you sign
- Identify legal risks and unusual conditions
- Advise on finance and due diligence clauses
- Ensure deposit protections are clear
- Manage settlement and title transfer
We help you understand what you’re committing to — before you commit.
When should you make or update a Will?
You should make or review your will if:
- You are over 18 and don’t yet have one
- You get married or enter a civil union
- You separate or divorce
- You purchase property
- Your family circumstances change
- Your financial position changes significantly
Marriage generally revokes a previous will unless it was clearly made in contemplation of that marriage. That alone makes review essential.
What happens if you die without a Will?
If you die intestate, the law determines how your estate is distributed. This may result in:
- Assets going to people you did not intend
- Delays in administration
- Additional stress for your family
- Greater risk of disputes
While intestacy laws are designed to provide fair outcomes in typical scenarios, they cannot account for individual circumstances.
A will ensures your wishes — not assumptions — guide the outcome.
What should be included in a Will?
Most wills include:
- Distribution of money, property and personal belongings
- Specific gifts to named individuals
- Trust provisions (if applicable)
- Funeral instructions
- Appointment of executors
Choosing the right executor is critical. They are responsible for administering your estate and carrying out your instructions. We can advise on whether a family member or independent professional is most appropriate.
Do you need a Lawyer to make a Will?
Legally, no.
A will must:
- Be in writing
- Be signed by you
- Be witnessed by two people
However, professionally drafted wills reduce the risk of errors, ambiguity and legal challenge.
Homemade wills are more likely to:
- Be contested
- Fail to deal with complex assets properly
- Overlook trust or tax implications
- Create uncertainty during probate
If your estate includes property, business interests, trusts, or blended family arrangements, legal advice is strongly recommended.
Our approach to Estate Planning.
When we say we’re in your corner, we mean it.
We:
- Take the time to understand your circumstances
- Explain your options clearly — without legal jargon
- Draft documents tailored to your needs
- Ensure formal requirements are properly met
- Remain available as your life evolves
Many wills can be completed efficiently and cost-effectively, including fixed-fee options for straightforward matters.
Related services.
Your will is one part of broader estate planning. We also assist with:
- Enduring Powers of Attorney
- Probate and estate administration
- Trust establishment and restructuring
- Relationship property agreements
FAQs
Do I need a will if I don’t own much?
Yes. Even modest assets benefit from clear direction. A will reduces confusion and simplifies administration.
How often should I update my will?
You should review your will whenever your circumstances change — marriage, separation, new children, or significant asset changes.
What is probate?
Probate is the legal process of validating a will through the High Court so the executor can administer the estate.
Can a will be challenged?
Yes. Wills can be contested under certain circumstances, particularly if dependants believe they have not been adequately provided for. Proper drafting reduces this risk.
Start your Will with Canterbury Legal.
A will is not just a legal document — it’s certainty for the people you care about.
If you’re ready to make or update your will, speak with our Christchurch wills lawyers today.
One conversation now can save your family uncertainty later.