Information for new clients
What to expect when working with Pitt & Moore
Engaging a lawyer is often prompted by an important decision or a significant change. Whether you are seeking business advice, purchasing property, resolving a dispute or planning for the future, we aim to make the process clear and straightforward from the outset.
Below is an overview of how we work and what you can expect as a new client.
Getting started
You can contact us directly or we can connect you with the appropriate specialist.
At your initial meeting, we will:
Understand your objectives
Identify the legal issues involved
Outline possible next steps
Discuss likely timeframes
Provide information about fees
To make the most of your first meeting, please bring any relevant documents and background information.
Fees and billing
We will discuss fees with you at the beginning of your matter.
Depending on the nature of the work, fees may be based on:
An hourly rate
A fixed fee
An estimate of likely costs
We provide invoices on a regular basis and are happy to discuss billing arrangements if required. In some matters, we may require funds to be held in our trust account before work is undertaken. Further detail is available in our Standard Terms of Engagement.
Communication
You will have a primary lawyer responsible for your matter. Where appropriate, other members of our team may assist to ensure work is completed efficiently and at the right level of expertise.
We are committed to:
Clear explanations in plain language
Prompt responses to enquiries
Keeping you informed of significant developments
If at any stage you are unsure about progress or next steps, please contact us.
Identity verification and AML requirements
As a New Zealand law firm, we are required to comply with the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act.
This means we must verify your identity and, in some cases, the source of funds involved in transactions.
We appreciate your cooperation in providing requested documentation. These requirements are mandatory and designed to protect clients and the integrity of the legal and financial system.
Professional standards
Pitt & Moore is regulated by the New Zealand Law Society.
We are committed to:
If you ever have concerns about our services, we encourage you to raise them with us directly. Our complaints procedure is outlined in our Standard Terms of Engagement.
Working together
The best outcomes are achieved when we work collaboratively.
We ask that clients:
Ready to begin?
If you are ready to engage us or would like to discuss your situation, please contact our office and we will connect you with the appropriate lawyer.
This helps us progress your matter efficiently and effectively.