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Separating is never easy, it is often complex and nuanced. Let us take some of the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on building your new life.
When two parties separate in New Zealand, ordinarily the provisions of the Property (Relationships) Act will apply. This Act governs how your property needs to be divided. Often this can be simple, however in almost every instance a lawyer will be required to ensure you comply with the provisions of the Act. This means that both you and the other party will need to have legal representation to satisfy those provisions.
Whether your matter is as simple as having one party purchase the family home off the other or it is as complex as navigating an interlinked company and trust structure — We will be able to assist.
These disputes are often two sides of the same coin and we understand that sometimes separation can create tension between parties. Our job is to de-escalate the situation as much as possible and act in your interests for an expedient and inexpensive resolution.
While there are a variety of in court and out of court options available, we will work towards the best option for your situation.
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Doug joined CS Law in 1996 after graduating from Victoria University with an LLB, BA and a BA (Philosophy). Doug is the first Director of CS Law after Cullinane Steele incorporated having become a partner in 2003.
Doug practices in the areas of commercial and property law, trusts, wills, estates and relationship property specialising in business transactions, commercial lending and advice on asset protection and business structures. Having grown up on a dairy farm Doug has a particular interest in rural transactions.
Doug is married to Hannah and has two teenage daughters. He is the Chair of Te Hinaki Education Trust and is passionate about improving educational outcomes for all children in Horowhenua.
He values the role Christian faith has in his life and in his spare time he is a keen Cricket and Rugby fan, enjoys a good bike ride and relaxing with a book or the paper!
Doug is also a Notary Public.
Peter specialises in resolving disputes that arise in a variety of relationships such as between people who are separating, and between employers and employees. Peter’s diverse background working in different environments such as IT, social work, and law helps him remain grounded and focused on negotiating the realistic solutions to complex problems.
Where a matter cannot be resolved by agreement through negotiation, Peter is also experienced in presenting cases in court and has appeared in the Family Court, Employment Court, High Court, and a variety of other forums.
Peter is married to Kate and they live in Wellington. They have 3 adult children, 2 cats and a dog. When he’s not at work, you may find Peter surfing the waves at Lyall Bay, spending time with his family, or at St Michael’s Anglican Church in Kelburn.
Connie graduated from the University of Otago in 2018 with a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in History and Japanese. Connie joined CS Law as a student intern over the summer of 2015, returning each year before starting full-time employment in 2019. She was admitted to the bar in June 2019.
Connie is a member of the litigation team and practices in family law, with a focus on relationship property, PPPR, care of children and family violence proceedings. Connie aims to get the best results for her clients while helping them navigate and understand the Family Court process.
Alex joined CS Law in 2023 and works in our Litigation Team.
Alex graduated from Victoria University of Wellington with a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in International Relations. During his studies, Alex worked as a community youth worker for young people in Wellington and Porirua.
In his spare time, Alex is an avid hockey player and enjoys a round of golf.
Rebecca joined CS Law in 2025 and works in the Litigation Team.
Rebecca studied at Victoria University of Wellington, where she completed a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in History. Prior to joining CS Law, she has worked at John Miller Law and the Social Workers Registration Board.
Outside of work, Rebecca is a volunteer at Community Law Wellington and Hutt Valley, and a member of the Community Law Volunteer Sub-Committee.
Claire joined CS Law in 2025 and works in the Litigation Team.
Claire earned a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Canterbury in 1996. After graduation, she spent time traveling and teaching English overseas, before returning to New Zealand where she began work in the digital media industry. This career path eventually took her to Sydney. In 2014, Claire and her husband relocated to the Horowhenua where they started a farm. During this time she ran an import business while raising their two children.
In 2023 Claire returned to law, studying at Victoria University, and was admitted to the bar in March 2025. Claire aims to use her life experience, compassion and expertise to help clients navigate challenging family situations and achieve effective resolutions.
Lucy joined CS Law in 2025 and works in the Litigation Team.
Originally from Wellington, Lucy studied at the University of Otago, where she completed a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Geography. Prior to joining CS Law, she worked on claims for survivors of abuse in state and faith-based care, gaining valuable experience in sensitive matters.
Outside of work, Lucy enjoys cooking, netball, yoga, and concerts.
Alexia joined CS Law in 2025 and works in our Litigation Team.
Before becoming a lawyer Alexia worked as a disability carer, then travelled abroad to live and work in Ireland and Northern Ireland, where she worked in hospitality and office administration.
Alexia returned to New Zealand and completed her studies at Victoria University of Wellington | Te Herenga Waka, completing a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Management. During her studies Alexia was involved with Ngā Rangahautira (The Māori Law Students Association) and Community Law.
Alexia was admitted to the bar in October 2022 and has previous experience working at one of New Zealand’s leading commercial law firms. Although new to this area of practice, Alexia has a keen interest in working alongside people to navigate the complexities and challenges that commonly present themselves in family and employment law.