Abuse Law

Suffering emotional, physical or sexual abuse can be an incredibly difficult process. Money can’t take away the pain. However, you may be entitled to compensation so you can obtain the care and support services you need in certain circumstances.

At Shine Lawyers NZ, we have expertise dealing with clients who have suffered emotional, physical or sexual abuse. We are lucky to have the resources of a team of experienced abuse lawyers from our Australian office, as well as expert abuse law lawyers in New Zealand. Our Australian team are some of the most experienced abuse lawyers in Australasia, and we will do all we can to help and support you through this time.

Shine Lawyers has experience in sexual abuse claims

In Australasia, Shine Lawyers have extensive experience, including taking cases against the following institutions:

  • HMAS Leeuwin Abuse
  • Brisbane Grammar School Abuse
  • Toowoomba Preparatory School Abuse
  • St Paul’s Anglican School Abuse
  • Neerkol Orphanage Abuse
  • St Vincent’s Orphanage (Nudgee) Abuse

If you or someone you know has suffered abuse you may be eligible for compensation, contact Shine Lawyers NZ today for a confidential, obligation-free consultation.

Can I make an institutional abuse claim?​

Shine Lawyers NZ can support survivors of abuse to make an institutional sexual abuse claim against:

  • Churches or Church-run institutions
  • Schools (Find out more about Dilworth School Abuse Claims)
  • Hospitals
  • Government departments (for instance, abuse in foster care or state-based care)
  • Child-care centres
  • Juvenile detention centres 
  • Sports clubs and community groups
  • And other public places

The availability of compensation for abuse in New Zealand is more restricted at present than in Australia, but there are still avenues worth pursuing and we have the expertise and determination to pursue these for you.

Forced Adoption Claims

If you were impacted by forced adoption practices between 1950 and 1980, you may be eligible to make a claim for compensation. Click here to find out more about Forced Adoption Compensation.

Why choose Shine Lawyers?

serviceFree 30 minute consultation

serviceClaim assessment where we explain all of the options available

serviceCan’t make it to the office? We can meet with you virtually

serviceNo Win No Fee* for suitable cases

We are here to help you right wrong.

If you or some you know has suffered abuse, you can contact us, and our trained and experienced team will treat your case with the strictest confidence. We can advise you on what options you have.

Contact Shine Lawyers NZ today for a confidential, obligation-free consultation.

Are there any Shine Lawyers near me 

We believe that everyone is entitled to the highest standard of legal advice and service, no matter where they’re located.  

With branches in Auckland and Christchurch and obligation-free virtual appointments, location is no barrier when it comes to accessing Shine Lawyers’ legal advice and support. Our expert team  will do everything they can to help you secure the resolution you deserve.  

Our obligation-free virtual appointments mean that no matter where you’re located in New Zealand, there are always lawyers near. You have access to the same expert legal advice and the same level of quality and commitment. 

Who is Shine Lawyers New Zealand's Abuse Law team?

Shine Lawyers’ Abuse Law team includes some of the firm’s most experienced solicitors and support staff. The team includes:

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