Document background
The Marital Dissolution Agreement is a crucial legal document used in New Zealand when couples seek to formally end their marriage through dissolution (divorce). This agreement is governed by the Family Proceedings Act 1980 and must comply with various New Zealand family law statutes, including the Property (Relationships) Act 1976. It is typically prepared after the parties have separated and before or during the formal dissolution process, documenting all agreed terms regarding property division, financial arrangements, and if relevant, children's matters. The agreement requires both parties to receive independent legal advice and must be properly executed to be legally binding. It serves as a comprehensive record of the parties' agreements and can help avoid future disputes about property division or other post-separation arrangements. The document is particularly important as it can be filed with the Family Court and may form part of the final dissolution order.
