What causes family asset disputes to escalate? How can they be better addressed to avoid that escalation? The inaugural AMINZ Family Asset Day combines expert insights, real-world case examples and practical discussion to explore these questions and others.

Family asset disputes can in fact be the most complex of all. Families in Aotearoa New Zealand often hold significant assets together, such as family farms, small to medium enterprises, generational family businesses, real estate and/or other asset classes, both at home and overseas. Ownership is often through complex trust and business arrangements.

When things go wrong, not only are there potential business, governance, tax, trust and regulatory issues to address, there is always an overlay of family dynamics and emotions – even when it is unacknowledged. There may be multiple generations involved, multiple arms of a family, and/or estranged spouses (de facto or de jure) with extended family members affected by the conflict.

If you are a solicitor, barrister, accountant, financial adviser, wealth manager, you'll gain practical insights into preventing and managing conflict, supporting effective decision-making, and planning for the future.

Event Details

Date: Thursday 24 September
Time: 9am-5pm
Venue: Christchurch and Online
CPD: 4 points

Pricing (incl. GST)

AMINZ Member
In person: $489
Online: $431

Non-AMINZ Member
In person: $581
Online: $495

Register now

The Programme

Gain an understanding of the common causes of family asset disputes, from separation and succession to intergenerational wealth transfer and complex ownership structures. This session explores the emotional, relational and financial factors that contribute to conflict, the consequences of disputes left unresolved, and practical lessons drawn from real-world case studies.
Discover how effective governance and early communication can reduce the likelihood of family asset disputes. This session examines practical tools including documenting agreements, contracting out arrangements, trust management and estate planning, alongside strategies for identifying concerns early and establishing clear expectations. Learn where neutral third parties can play a valuable role in preventing disputes before they escalate.
Explore the challenges that arise when relationships end, including asset division, financial settlements and ongoing family dynamics. This session considers the emotional impact of separation, the role of mediation, collaborative resolution and other dispute resolution processes, and how early intervention can support more constructive outcomes through a practical case study.
Succession planning and intergenerational wealth transfer can present challenges around fairness, transparency, and differing expectations. By aligning financial decisions with family values and using effective dispute resolution processes, families can navigate transitions more smoothly and reduce the risk of conflict.
Family asset disputes often become more challenging where trusts, contracting out arrangements or overseas assets are involved. This session explores the legal and practical issues that arise in these complex matters, including tax, succession and cross-border considerations, and discusses approaches to resolving disputes across multiple jurisdictions.
Conclude the day by reflecting on the common themes that underpin successful dispute resolution. Drawing on practical examples, this session identifies the factors that helped de-escalate conflict, the approaches that supported constructive outcomes, and the key lessons that families and their advisers can apply in practice.
We'll then wrap up the day with refreshments and networking, providing an opportunity to continue the conversation, exchange ideas, and connect with colleagues and peers.