Question
"I've lost my job but I don't think I've been treated fairly... what are my options?" Answer
Your employer must treat you with 'good faith'. If they haven't, you have the right to make a personal grievance against them but it must be done withing 90 days (about three months) of you losing your job. Question
"I don't think I can afford a lawyer but I need one. What are my options?" Answer
We can help you apply for legal aid. We don't charge anything for coming in to see us to arrange this. We have helped thousands of people access justice this way and we're really good at it. Also, we're friendly :) Find out more information about legal aid here. Question
"What is the difference between a lawyer and an advocate?" Answer
There are two major differences: Firstly, a lawyer is not only trained in the law, they are admitted to the Bar - in other words, they are an Officer of the Court; Secondly, lawyers are answerable to the New Zealand Law Society so if you are unsatisfied with their service you have a regulatory body to complain to. Remember that employment advocates sometimes do not have the level of training, education or insurance cover that practicing lawyers have. Also, they are entirely unregulated. |
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Useful information about employment law...
Legal Aid
Legal aid is available for employment matters. You should take this into account before engaging a lawyer or advocate privately, as the legal aid rate is significantly lower than what lawyers charge privately or the percentage fee that some advocates take. Contact us on 0800 339 223 to find out if you could qualify for legal aid assistance. |