Term and Conditions

1. Introduction

(a) McKenzie Law (we or our) values its relationship with our clients (you) and believes that it is important that you are aware of and understand the terms on which we will provide legal services to you.

(b) These terms of engagement apply every time you engage us to provide legal services unless an alternative arrangement is agreed in writing.

(c) Continued instructions constitute acceptance of these terms.

(d) Please retain a copy of these terms for your records.

(e) Questions may be directed to Ron McKenzie, the partner responsible for your business.

2. Services

(a) In carrying out the engagement we will:

• Exercise reasonable care and skill.
• Comply with legal and ethical obligations.
• Use best efforts to meet agreed timeframes and costs.
• Act in your best interests subject to legal constraints.

(b) Our duties are owed solely to you.

(c) Work may be delegated internally.

(d) We provide legal advice only.

3. Communication

(a) We will keep you informed of progress.

(b) You must provide accurate contact details.

(d) Email communication is authorised if provided.

(e) You consent to receiving firm communications unless you opt out.

4. Our Fees

• Time and labour expended.
• Skill and responsibility required.
• Importance and results achieved.
• Urgency and time constraints.
• Risk assumed.
• Complexity of the matter.
• Experience and reputation.
• Opportunity cost.
• Fee structure.
• Any estimate provided.
• Any fee agreement.
• Practice costs.
• Market rates.

(b) Estimates are available on request.

(c) Estimates are indicative only.

(d) Fixed fees are payable in advance.

(e) Disputed fixed fees revert to time-based billing at NZD $695 + GST per hour.

5. Disbursements and Office Services

(a) Disbursements are charged at cost.

(b) Office services are charged at 3.5% of legal fees.

(c) You may opt out and be charged actual costs.

6. Our Invoices

(a) Monthly invoices are issued for ongoing matters.

(b) Advance funds may be required and held in trust.

7. Payment

(a) Invoices are payable within 7 days.

(b) Credit card payments incur a 2.5% fee.

(c) Conveyancing fees are payable on settlement.

(d) Fees may be deducted from trust funds with consent.

8. Unpaid Accounts

(a) Please contact us if payment issues arise.

(b) Overdue amounts may incur 2% monthly default interest and suspension of work.

(c) Recovery costs are payable by you.

9. Ownership, Copyright, and Lien

You own documents prepared for you.

We retain copyright but grant you an exclusive licence.

We reserve a general lien over files until payment is made.

Files are retained for at least one year.

11. Confidentiality

Public domain information is not confidential.

12. Publicity

We may publicise our involvement once a matter becomes public.

13. Privacy

We collect, use, and store personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1993.

Information may be disclosed to credit agencies and service providers.

14. Verification of Identity

Identity verification may be required to meet legal obligations.

15. Ethical Duties

Conflicts are managed in accordance with professional rules.

Either party may terminate the engagement.

16. Complaints and Disputes

Concerns should be raised promptly with the relevant person or Managing Partner.