Employment Law
We spend a lot of time at work, so it is no surprise that we find it very upsetting when things go wrong. We act for both employers and employees on a regular basis, so are there for you when things are going wrong.
If you are an employee...
If you are an employee, the first thing you need to know is that there are some timeframes to comply with. If you want to raise a serious issue with your employer, or are upset about the way you have been dealt with, this is known as a personal grievance. You must lodge your personal grievance claim within 90 days of your dismissal or the problem arising.
This has to be done in writing. It’s a good idea to get a lawyer to help you draft the letter, but there is nothing to prevent you doing this yourself.
The sorts of things that you can bring a claim for include:
- Unjustified Dismissal – this is where you believe the employer did not have a good reason, or did not follow a fair process when arriving at their decision.
- Unjustified Disadvantage – for example where your hours, duties or pay are changed without good consultation; or if you are not given a reasonable opportunity to respond to concerns about your performance.
- Discrimination – if you feel that you the employer has overlooked you or treated you differently because of your sex, age, or religious beliefs.
- Sexual Harassment – any unwelcome behaviour that creates an unsafe work environment.
We'll then support you with:
- Representing you in mediations, Employment Relations Authority hearings, and Employment Court or higher courts if necessary.
- Negotiation of exit packages and settlement agreements, including constructive dismissal and redundancy resolution.
- Urgent injunctions such as interim reinstatement applications.
We can also give advice on employment agreements, employment status (employee vs contractor), and workplace rights and entitlements (e.g. minimum leave, wages, rest breaks).
If you are an employer...
We act for a number of businesses and some large organisations, so when it comes to employment law, we have seen it all. We can help with:
- Drafting employment agreements.
- Advising you when an employee has raised a claim.
- Representing you in mediations or court proceedings.
- Negotiating an exit package or settlement agreements.
- Obtaining an injunction to prevent a former employee from using customer information or confidential information they obtained while working in the business.
Why Choose Us?
- We have a deep understanding of employment law, and a proven track record of results in this area.
- Pragmatic, solution driven advice focused on protecting rights and reducing risk
- Tailored service whether you are an individual or employer, large or small
Contact Us
While we are based in Auckland, we serve clients throughout the country and we’re ready to assist you in matters from employment agreement reviews to full advocacy — from workplace mediation through to Court proceedings.
Get in touch for a free confidential consultation to assess your matter.
