The Law Association of New Zealand



Evidence Act for Family Lawyers

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Strong evidence is essential to any successful case. But what counts as evidence, and how should it be applied in Family Court proceedings? A careful and informed approach is key, guided by the Evidence Act 2006.

This session provides a practical overview of the Evidence Act 2006 and the Family Court Rules 2002, including a closer look at the often misunderstood “any evidence” approach under the Family Court Act 1980.

Focusing on key case law and real-world application, the session follows the main stages of a Family Court matter:

  • Drafting clear and compliant written evidence
  • Managing evidential issues before the hearing
  • Presenting effective advocacy at a defended hearing

Learning Outcomes

  • Prepare compliant evidence
  • Identify and respond to evidential issues
  • Prepare for a defended hearing
  • Challenge oral evidence effectively

Who Should Attend

This session is ideal for family lawyers looking to strengthen their approach to evidence in Family Court proceedings, from preparation through to advocacy.

Presenters

Brintyn Smith | Barrister and Mediator, Brintyn Smith Barrister
Alice Strang | Barrister, Brintyn Smith Barrister

Brintyn Smith

Brintyn (Tūhoe) is a family law barrister based in Warkworth and Auckland. He deals predominantly with complex care of children, family violence, relocation, and care and protection matters. He also undertakes relationship property work. Brintyn accepts Family Court appointments to act as Lawyer for Child. He is also an Instructor at the Institute of Professional Legal Studies (IPLS). 

Brintyn is passionate about and actively advocates for the safety and well-being of practitioners. He also has an interest in matters of practice and procedure, alternative dispute resolution and elder law.

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Alice Strang

Aly is a specialist family law barrister and legal aid provider. She handles family law legal matters with a special interest in advocacy, procedural and interlocutory matters. Aly routinely appears in the Family Court in respect of parenting and guardianship disputes, Family Violence, Oranga Tamariki and Relationship Property matters. While passionate about litigation, Aly also places significant emphasis on resolving disputes amicably through mediation and collaborative approaches. 

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Details

Pricing Details

Ticket Price

Member: $160 plus GST
Non-Member: $230 plus GST




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Registration

Registration Close Date

11/06/2026
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