Going through a separation can feel overwhelming, but understanding the steps involved—and what your lawyer needs from you—can make the process much more manageable.
At Regent Law, we guide you through the legal side of separation with a focus on reassurance, clarity, and simplicity. Whether your split is amicable or a little more complicated, our goal is to help you move forward with confidence.
Below is a step-by-step look at what happens when you work with us to create a legally binding Separation Agreement.
Step 1: Meet your lawyer and become a client
Your first step is to meet with one of our lawyers—either in person, by phone, or via video call.
This initial meeting is a chance for us to:
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Understand your unique situation
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Answer your legal questions
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Make sure we’re the right fit for you
Before we meet, you’ll receive our engagement letter, which outlines our pricing (some of which is fixed fee) and confirms you as a client. During the meeting, we’ll also begin collecting the background information needed for your agreement.
Step 2: Onboarding and AML/CFT checks
Once you’re on board, we’ll request:
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A copy of your photo ID (passport, or driver licence + bank card)
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Proof of address (e.g. a recent utility bill or bank statement)
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A fee advance to secure your place in our workflow
If your agreement involves property or money changing hands, we’ll also complete AML/CFT (Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism) compliance checks, which all lawyers are required to do.
Prefer to keep things efficient? Let us know if you’d rather minimise in-person meetings—we’re happy to do as much as possible remotely.
Step 3: Information gathering and disclosure
To draft a legally sound agreement, we need a clear picture of your finances and circumstances. This includes:
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Bank accounts, KiwiSaver, loans, and credit cards
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Property, vehicles, businesses, and valuables
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Any trusts you’re involved with
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Whether you have a Will or Enduring Powers of Attorney
We’ll help you determine which items are relationship property (to be divided) and which are separate property (yours to keep). If you prefer, we can gather this info through a meeting instead of asking you to complete the full form yourself.
Step 4: Legal analysis and spreadsheet modelling
Once we have all the details, we:
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Categorise assets and debts as relationship or separate property
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Create a breakdown in an asset pool spreadsheet
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Compare your legal entitlements under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 with what’s proposed in your agreement
This ensures transparency and allows you to make informed decisions—especially if the division is not a 50/50 split.
Step 5: Drafting and signing your Separation Agreement
We’ll prepare your draft agreement and coordinate with your ex-partner’s lawyer.
To be legally binding, each of you must receive independent legal advice, and the agreement must be signed in front of your respective lawyers (as required by section 21F of the Act).
We also support your ex-partner’s lawyer by preparing a disclosure pack, which can help reduce their legal fees.
Optional: Help with property transfers and refinancing
If your agreement includes transferring a house, car, or other major asset, we can also assist with:
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Completing the legal transfer of property
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Refinancing or loan documentation
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Liaising with banks and mortgage brokers
How we can help
At Regent Law, we offer full-service and guided DIY options so you can choose the level of support that suits your needs and budget.
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to formalise your agreement, we’re here to help you navigate separation with peace of mind.
📅 Ready to get started?
Contact us to request your Separation Pack and pricing information, or book your initial meeting.
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