Here's what we mean when we say...
We thought it might be helpful to define some of the key terms we've used throughout the website that might not be the same as the words you use; it could be that some of them have changed over time, or are no longer in 'legal usage.'
| You say... | We say/this now means... |
|---|---|
| Divorce | Dissolution of marriage |
| Custody (of children) | Day-to-day care (Care of Children Act) |
| Custody Order (of children) | Parenting Order (Care of Children Act) |
| Access (of children) | Contact/Parenting Order |
| Visitation (of children) | Contact/Parenting Order |
| Maintenance | Child support |
| Pre-nup/prenuptial agreement | Contracting Out Agreement |
| Restraining Order | Protection Order (under the Domestic Violence Act) |
| Social welfare | Children Young Persons and their Families Service (referred to as CYFS) |
| Attorney |
Power of Attorney/Enduring Power of Attorney OR how Americans refer to a lawyer - not used in NZ |
| Sacking/sacked/fired (employment) | Dismissal |
| DIC (drunk in charge) OR EBA (excessive breath alcohol) | Drink driving charge |
| Work Licence (following DIC) | Limited licence |
