What you can expect from Rochelle when she acts for you.
You can expect me to be professional, approachable and dedicated to putting your case forward in the best possible way for you and your family, whether in out-of-Court negotiations or when in the Family Court.
During our first appointment with me as your family or divorce lawyer we will go through all the details of your situation. You can rely on me to give you good, sound and responsible family legal advice, even if it is hard to hear. I am not a lawyer who will promise to perform miracles for you, only to have you lose spectacularly in Court (and after spending thousands of dollars!)
When acting in any matter under the Care of Children Act 2004, I have a duty to the Court to "promote conciliation". This means I have a duty to advise you about any non-Court options for resolving your dispute, and I have a duty not to unnecessarily prolong proceedings. It is a duty I take seriously. I will not turn your case into a nasty "tit for tat" fight which serves only to increase your legal fees. But I will be a zealous advocate for you and use my experience to advance your case in the best way possible.
At all times I am bound by the Rules of Conduct and Client Care for Lawyers which state that whatever legal services your lawyer is providing, he or she must:
Act competently, in a timely way, and in accordance with instructions received and arrangements made.
Protect and promote your interests and act for you free from compromising influences or loyalties.
Discuss with you your objectives and how they should best be achieved.
Provide you with information about the work to be done, who will do it and the way the services will be provided.
Charge you a fee that is fair and reasonable and let you know how and when you will be billed.
Give you clear information and advice.
Protect your privacy and ensure appropriate confidentiality.
Treat you fairly, respectfully and without discrimination.
Keep you informed about the work being done and advise you when it is completed.
Let you know how to make a complaint and deal with any complaint promptly and fairly.
These obligations are subject to other overriding duties, including duties to the courts and to the justice system.
A letter of engagement and my standard terms of engagement will be provided to you before I begin work for you. If you have any questions about these, please ask me.
The Law Society has some helpful information about what to expect, you can find this here.
Alternatively if you have any questions about the Rules of Conduct and Client Care for Lawyers, you can visit www.lawsociety.org.nz or call 0800 261 801.