Helping you move forward when it matters most

Family disputes are some of the most stressful experiences a person can face. Annie provides calm, strategic representation in all areas of family law, combining firm advocacy with genuine empathy.

With a wealth of experience, she listens carefully, advises honestly, and works diligently — whether in Court or through negotiation.

Annie secures practical, lasting solutions for her clients and their families.

  • "When my life was falling apart, I was lucky enough to have Annie as my lawyer. It would have been easy for the court process to leave me feeling overwhelmed. Annie led me through the process in a clear way and showed genuine care for myself and my tamariki. Annie helped me put my life back together and I'll always be very grateful."

    -KM, client in care of children and family violence court proceedings

  • "Going through a divorce was one of the hardest times of my life, but Annie made the process so much easier. She is professional, knowledgeable, compassionate, and always explained things clearly. I’m very grateful for her support and highly recommend her to anyone who needs a lawyer who is skilled and genuinely cares about their clients"

    EF, client in relationship property settlement negotiations

  • "I first met Annie when I needed a new lawyer for a very difficult family court case. She stepped in halfway through my proceedings and was completely thrown in the deep end. Despite that, Annie handled everything with professionalism, compassion, and an impressive understanding of my situation. I have nothing but high praise for Annie and the work she does. Later, I worked with both Annie and Alex on another family court matter, and once again, their professionalism and dedication were outstanding. It’s clear that both Annie and Alex are passionate about their work and genuinely care about their clients. I couldn’t recommend them highly enough."

    CQ, client in care of children court proceedings

  • "Annie is everything I could have hoped for in a family lawyer. She is hardworking, compassionate, and deeply committed, ensuring that I always felt supported and informed of every decision I needed to make. She makes you feel confident with expert guidance and genuine advocacy for your case. "

    RB, client in care of children and child support court proceedings

  • "Annie was exceptional throughout the whole process. At the start, she clarified the situation, and what the potential outcomes would be and provided compassionate support during a very stressful time for me. Throughout the whole proceedings she was timely, clear, and presented thorough and well-considered legal strategy, ultimately leading to my desired outcome. She truly goes above and beyond for her clients, and I would strongly recommend engaging her."

    Anonymous, client in family violence court proceedings

  • "Annie and Alex have been the most understanding and helpful lawyers over my time working with them. After extensive searching through the many firms online, I am so grateful to have been lead to this one. Family matters are very sensitive but Alex and Annie have made this time that little bit easier. Highly recommend to anyone seeking a family lawyer, as the compassion and legal knowledge is what you need in these difficult times. Alex was amazing, she kept me well informed with quick responses reassuring any worries."

    HW, client in family violence court proceedings

  • "As a client navigating complex family matters, I feel incredibly supported by Annie’s expertise and care. Annie is an exceptional family lawyer – strategic, proactive, and deeply committed to securing the best possible outcome. Her advice is clear, practical, and results-focussed, and she consistently anticipates challenges with confidence and precision. What truly sets Annie apart is her compassionate approach. She listens with empathy, offers unwavering support, and ensures you feel protected throughout the process. Her professionalism and timely communication brings genuine peace of mind. Annie goes above and beyond. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking trusted, high calibre legal representation."

    LI, client in family violence and care of children court proceedings

Annie Tavalea

Annie practises family law and has a particular interest in Family Court litigation. Based in Central Auckland, she works across all Courts in the greater Auckland area, and accepts instructions out of Auckland as well. 

Annie is known for her straight-forward yet empathic approach. She cares about her clients and takes time to listen to them and to understand what they want and need. She provides pragmatic and realistic advice, and aims to help people navigate the legal system during very stressful times in their lives. Annie has a proven history of obtaining excellent results for her clients both in Court and in alternative dispute resolution. 

Annie began her legal career working in Community Law in both South and Central Auckland. She moved into working exclusively in family law when she joined the family law team at Tompkins Wake (Auckland) in 2020. She joined the independent bar, initially employed as a junior barrister, before joining Bastion Chambers as a barrister sole in 2023. Annie became a member of Albert Park Chambers in 2026.  

Annie accepts instructions from instructing solicitors, direct private instructions and some instructions on legal aid. She is a lead legal aid provider for care of children, family violence, Oranga Tamariki and adoption matters. 

Auckland Lawyer, Family law barrister in Auckland Custody help

Phone: 022 432 6318 | Email: annie@tavalea.co.nz | Address: Albert Park Chambers,Level 10, 2 Kitchener Street, Auckland

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