The New Zealand Law Society (NZLS) has released an updated practice note offering essential guidance for lawyers planning to shut down their legal practices. The guidance, effective immediately, emphasizes professional responsibilities and key procedural steps to ensure a smooth, ethical closure.
This note outlines obligations such as notifying clients in a timely manner, securing or transferring client records appropriately, handling trust accounts, and ensuring all legal matters are either concluded or reassigned. It also provides direction on handling digital data, closing business accounts, and managing regulatory obligations like updating practicing certificates or informing relevant legal bodies.
The NZLS aims to support practitioners in protecting both their clients and professional standing during transitions. The updated guidelines are part of NZLS’s ongoing commitment to upholding legal standards and offering practical support to the profession.
