Corcoran French Lawyers

With you all the way.

Throughout our lives many of us will find ourselves in need of legal advice, be it for matters like conveyancing, employment, or some other requirement. Rather than searching for the right legal expert for the job each time, why not partner with a multi-disciplined legal firm that can be with you every step of the way? Our diverse and extensive team of legal experts are committed to achieving the best outcomes for you and your bottom line.

About us

Peace of mind when it’s needed most.

Legal challenges can be stressful and overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to work with a legal firm you can trust. Here at Corcoran French, we consider our clients the most important people in our business. Getting you the best result is our priority. For more than 130 years we have been offering Canterbury residents and businesses legal advice and peace of mind when it’s needed most. Find out more about us and why people in Canterbury and Westland are choosing our team of experienced personal and business lawyers.

Personal Law

Our Process

1
Discuss your legal requirements – No obligation, no fee.
2
Identify the legal issues requiring attention.
3
Confirm any fees and obligations.
4
Strategise determine the most efficient way to produce the desired outcome.
5
Implement your legal strategy.
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NZ LAW

A leading national network of lawyers.

Corcoran French is one of over 50 firms throughout New Zealand that are proud members of NZ LAW. Membership enables firms across the country to access one another’s skills, resources, information, and ideas whilst maintaining the confidentiality of their clients’ affairs.

Latest news

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March 2026 | Jordan Figota

Big change for Landlords: “No Pets” bans no longer allowed

Landlords Beware: Blanket ‘No Pets’ Clauses Now Illegal!  Tenants in New Zealand may keep a pet with written consent from their landlord and from 1 December 2025, landlords cannot refuse consent without reasonable grounds. Any tenancy agreement containing a blanket “no pets” clause will be unenforceable unless it sets out specific, reasonable grounds for the restriction.  This reform represents a significant shift for landlords. A refusal must now be linked to matters such as property suitability, body corporate or local bylaw restrictions, safety concerns, or…

February 2026 | Grace Aislabie

Important employment law changes that affect you

The Employment Relations Amendment Bill, which was introduced to clarify employment rights, creates more certainty for contracting parties and re-balances the personal grievance system. It passed its third reading on 17 February 2026. It’s due…

February 2026 | Madeleine Haugh

Trust eSpeaking

Welcome to the Autumn 2026 edition of Trust eSpeaking.

February 2026 | Brett Kilbride

The Hidden Cost of DIY Wills

Wills play a key role in estate planning and are often tailor-made by lawyers to best suit the circumstances of each individual. But what happens when a will is created without proper knowledge of the…

February 2026 | Jo Yusaf

Rachael Robertson finishes term as Managing Partner; Mark Henderson steps into the role

We are pleased to share an important leadership transition at Corcoran French. Former Managing partner Rachael Robertson has handed over the reins to Mark Henderson. Rachael will continue as a valued…

What people are saying…

“My wife and I regard Corcoran French as a Goldilocks type company. They’re not too big that you’re not a personal client and they won’t have personal interface with you, but they’re big enough to have all the people in-house that you might possibly need in terms of advice. They have all resources in their fold, without being a big corporate where you get lost in anonymity as to who you are.”

Brent Rawstron
Managing Director of Rossendale Holdings

Effective Solutions Peace of Mind