12 verified family lawyers in Nelson
Clients consistently praise Sarah Moon for her compassionate, professional approach during emotionally difficult times, noting she provides exceptional clarity while translating complex legal jargon into understandable terms. They highlight her responsiveness, attention to detail, and ability to make them feel supported and understood throughout processes like relationship property settlements, separations, and prenuptial agreements. Many specifically mention feeling calmer and more hopeful after working with her, appreciating her empathy combined with strong advocacy that leads to favorable outcomes.
Clients consistently praise Andrew Shaw's exceptional client care, describing him as a careful listener who explains legal matters clearly without jargon. They highlight his professionalism, dedication, and willingness to go above and beyond in complex cases across family law, employment, and estate matters. Multiple reviews specifically mention his ability to achieve better-than-expected outcomes, with clients noting his strong advocacy, honesty, and support during stressful legal proceedings.
Clients consistently praise the firm for exceptional service, describing staff as friendly, efficient, genuinely caring, and professional. Specific lawyers mentioned positively include Niall, Connor, Kathy, Nicola, Violet, and Robyn Dewson, with clients noting clear communication, quick response times, and attention to detail. Reviews highlight the firm's ability to handle complex matters successfully, with many clients appreciating the supportive environment and practical amenities like off-street parking.
Clients frequently praise Margot Harkness and the team for being professional, friendly, and providing clear advice, particularly in property and family law matters. However, several reviews raise serious concerns about poor communication, being ghosted after payment, missed deadlines, and the firm refusing new clients or taking on opposing parties after initial rejection. While many long-term clients recommend the firm highly, others describe unprofessional behavior, inflated rates, and incorrect advice that has damaged trust over recent years.
Clients praise the firm for being informative, helpful, and professional, with specific mentions of clear explanations and excellent customer service. Several reviewers highlight efficiency and positive experiences with property matters, while one mentions a lawyer named Kaye as lovely and professional. However, some clients report concerns about slow service, overcharging, and poor communication with banks in one case, and another simply states the firm was not very helpful.
Clients describe the team as having amazing knowledge that puts them at ease during what can be stressful legal matters. They specifically praise the team's ability to create a comfortable and reassuring environment while demonstrating strong expertise in their field.
Clients praise specific lawyers like Josh and Steve for being brilliant, genuine, and excellent at their jobs, with many describing the firm as professional, effective, and supportive, especially with ACC matters. However, several reviews express serious concerns about communication issues, including difficulty getting responses to calls and emails, and one mentions an unhelpful receptionist. While many clients report exceptional experiences, others feel let down by poor responsiveness and unprofessional behavior from some staff members.
Clients praise specific lawyers like Miro Booth for her clear explanations and efficient property work, Heather McKinnon for exceptional family court representation, and Brent McDonald for professional, honest advice even when not engaged. However, multiple negative reviews describe serious concerns about communication failures, unprofessional conduct by lawyers like Jeremy Glasgow and Gerhard, and allegations of sexism in family law cases. While many clients report excellent long-term relationships with the firm, others warn of systemic culture issues and poor client communication.