As we draw closer to the commencement of a new practising year, we would like to thank you for your commitment and dedication to the legal profession and the people we serve together.
We are aware of the cost increases that legal practices are facing. Likewise, we are faced with increased operational costs consistent with inflation. The practising fee for 2025/26 will therefore increase by $30, to $1,530 (GST exclusive).
Please note that your practising fee is not a membership subscription. Under the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act 2006, funding received from practising fees can only be used for regulatory activities. For information about how the Law Society uses this funding see practising fee breakdown.
Inflation pressures and maintaining regulatory functions
The 2025/26 practising fee increase is in line with inflation and will assist the Law Society to maintain our regulatory functions.
The increase also allows us to continue implementing initiatives arising from our regulatory reform work in response to the recommendations of the Independent Review of the regulation of lawyers. The fee increase is necessary to support continued investment in our regulatory functions, enabling the Law Society to operate effectively and efficiently for both consumers and the legal profession.
What happens next
We will email you soon with instructions for how to renew your practising certificate. Practising fees must be paid in full and your fit and proper declaration made by 30 June 2025. For 2025/2026, practising certificates will be available to download in both English and te reo Māori.
Law Society membership subscription for 2025/26
The 2025/26 subscription fee is $300 + GST. Membership is complimentary in the first two years of practice. It includes membership to one section of your choice (eligibility criteria apply).
If you are an existing member, the subscription for your 2025/26 membership will be included in the invoice for your practising certificate. If you are entering your third year of practice, you must renew your membership for 2025/26 to continue your membership.
Not yet a member? Join the Law Society today.
If you have questions, please contact our membership team.
Thanks again for your continuing support. We’re grateful to have you on the journey.