Relationship Property

What property are you entitled if you separate from your partner?

Usually, when couples separate after being together for more than three years, the law requires their relationship property be divided equally between each party.

The law on relationship property is determined under the Property Relationship Act. Sometimes if the relationship has lasted less than three years, equal sharing may still apply if that would be considered just. For example, where there are children or one partner has made a substantial contribution to the relationship. Some property is deemed separate property not relationship property and therefore is not shared between the parties. Superannuation, inheritances and debts may fall in to this category. For clients who have trusts, own businesses or property in New Zealand or overseas, there can be additional challenges and complications. As a specialist family lawyer, Jeremy Sutton routinely deals with these sorts of cases.

If you would like to speak with Jeremy regarding legal aid for a relationship property matter, please fill out our inquiry form here.