What legal documents and prerequisites do I need to start my own legal services business?

To establish a legal services business in New Zealand, you will need to prepare and register a variety of legal documents. Key requirements include:

• Registering your business name with the New Zealand Companies Office (Companies Register).
• Obtaining Workers' compensation insurance and business insurance (e.g. public liability, professional indemnity).
• Securing Council approval (if operating from a commercial premise) and a lease agreement (if renting premises).
• Having Health and safety policies and procedures in place, in compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.
• Complying with privacy and data protection policies and procedures under the Privacy Act 2020.
• Obtaining a New Zealand Business Number (NZBN) and registering for Goods and Services Tax (GST) with Inland Revenue (IRD).
• Ensuring your lawyers are qualified to provide legal advice in New Zealand (e.g. law degree, completing Professional Legal Studies requirements).
• Having strong terms and conditions that customers agree to before they further engage with your business. This will allow you to limit liability for certain matters.