Best Job Discrimination Lawyers in New Zealand

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Rangiora, New Zealand

Founded in 2008
English
Williams McKenzie is a Canterbury based law firm with roots dating back to 1884 in Christchurch. The firm traces its lineage through a series of mergers and name changes and operates from Rangiora, serving clients across North Canterbury and the wider region. The practice combines a practical, cost...
Community Law Canterbury
Christchurch, New Zealand

English
Community Law Canterbury, also known as Te Ture Whānui o Waitaha, is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing accessible and high-quality legal assistance to individuals in Canterbury and the West Coast who encounter barriers to justice. The firm offers a comprehensive range of services,...
Govett Quilliam New Plymouth
New Plymouth, New Zealand

Founded in 1876
60 people in their team
English
Govett Quilliam is a full-service law firm based in New Plymouth that provides commercial, property and private client advice across the Taranaki region. Founded in 1876, the firm has a long regional presence and offers specialist capability in sectors such as energy, local government, health and...
Corcoran French Lawyers
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1892
50 people in their team
Māori
English
We are large enough to service your legal needs at every turn, but small enough to know you.  Corcoran French is your legal firm for life.We’re big enough that we have our finger on the pulse of legal policies and regulations. At the same time, we are small enough to stay accessible, provide...
LawHawk Limited
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 2015
2 people in their team
English
LawHawk Limited is a New Zealand legal operations consultancy and legal-technology provider that specialises in legal advice, document and workflow automation, contract management, and integrations with Microsoft 365 and leading document platforms. The firm designs and implements automation...
Catherine Stewart
Auckland, New Zealand

Founded in 2014
10 people in their team
Māori
English
About CatherineSpecializing in all areas of employment law, Catherine has around 30 years’ experience as an employment and litigation lawyer. She joined the independent bar as a barrister sole in 2012, having held senior roles in employment law including at partnership level in a major city firm....
Lawhub - Law Firm
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
50 people in their team
Lawhub is a boutique law firm which specialises in immigration, criminal, family, matrimonial, property, employment, and estate law. With offices in Christchurch and Hamilton, our team have been providing quality legal advice since 2017.‍At the heart of everything we do is genuine care for...
Malley & Co Lawyers
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
Working with us is easy and understandable.Information Gathering The first step is to understand the challenge that you're facing, what's important to you and what you'd like to achieve as your desired outcome.Analysis We will then consider all of the information you have provided to us,...
Owen Culliney Law Waihi
Waihi, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
4 people in their team
English
Owen Culliney Law Waihi is a New Zealand based firm specialising in corporate and commercial law, with a particular focus on protecting innovation, navigating high stakes transactions, and guiding clients through growth and change. Led by Owen Culliney and supported by a tight team, the firm brings...
Phil Mitchell, Employment Lawyers
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 1997
10 people in their team
Māori
English
ABOUT PHIL MITCHELLWellington lawyerSince graduating in 1997, Phil has worked as a lawyer in Wellington, Nelson, and Europe.Since establishing his own litigation practice in 2003, he has worked on personal grievance claims for employees, he has also acted for national charities and NGO small to...
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About Job Discrimination Law in New Zealand

Job discrimination in New Zealand is governed by a comprehensive legal framework that aims to ensure equal treatment in the workplace. Under the Human Rights Act 1993 and the Employment Relations Act 2000, New Zealand employers are prohibited from discriminating against employees or potential employees based on grounds such as race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, religious beliefs, and more. The primary goal of these laws is to promote fairness and equality in all employment-related matters, ensuring that decisions are made based on merit rather than personal characteristics.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where individuals might require legal assistance regarding job discrimination:

  • Facing Unfair Treatment: If you believe you're being treated unfairly in your workplace due to your personal characteristics, seeking legal advice can help you understand your rights and options.
  • Unjust Termination or Demotion: If you suspect that your termination or demotion was due to discriminatory reasons, a lawyer can assist in assessing the situation and pursuing appropriate remedies.
  • Harassment or Bullying: In cases where discriminatory harassment or bullying occurs, legal guidance might be necessary to address the issue effectively.
  • Disciplinary Actions: If you are subjected to disciplinary actions that you believe are discriminatory, a legal professional can help navigate the situation.
  • Workplace Accommodation: If you need reasonable accommodations due to a disability or religious beliefs and face resistance, legal advice might be beneficial.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of job discrimination laws in New Zealand include:

  • Prohibited Grounds of Discrimination: The Human Rights Act lists various grounds where discrimination is forbidden, including race, gender, age, disability, marital status, ethical beliefs, and more.
  • Obligation to Accommodate: Employers must make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities or those requiring accommodation for religious practices, as long as it doesn't cause undue hardship.
  • Resolution Processes: Discrimination complaints can typically be handled through internal workplace procedures, mediation, or by lodging a complaint with the Human Rights Commission.
  • Dispute Resolution: The Employment Relations Authority (ERA) and Employment Court are the judicial bodies that deal with employment disputes, including discrimination claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What constitutes job discrimination in New Zealand?

Job discrimination occurs when an employee or job applicant is treated unfairly based on prohibited grounds including race, age, gender, disability, etc.

2. How can I prove job discrimination?

Proving job discrimination typically involves showing that the treatment was different for others in similar positions and related to one of the prohibited discriminatory grounds.

3. What should I do if I experience discrimination at work?

Document the incidents, seek advice from a trusted advisor or lawyer, and consider raising the issue with your employer through formal internal procedures or lodging a complaint.

4. Can I pursue a discrimination claim after leaving my job?

Yes, you can file a discrimination claim within 90 days of the discrimination act or a court may allow a claim to be lodged later if there’s a justified reason for the delay.

5. Are job discrimination laws applicable to all employers in New Zealand?

Yes, all employers must comply with job discrimination laws. This applies to both public and private sector organizations.

6. What legal remedies are available for job discrimination in New Zealand?

Remedies can include compensation for lost wages, reinstatement, or changes in workplace practices. The specific remedy depends on the case and the outcomes of mediation or court rulings.

7. Is workplace bullying considered a form of discrimination?

If bullying targets personal characteristics protected under discrimination laws, it may be considered a form of discrimination.

8. How effective is mediation in resolving job discrimination disputes?

Mediation is often a useful first step in resolving disputes as it allows both parties to discuss the issue with a neutral third party to reach a mutually acceptable solution.

9. Can I be fired for filing a discrimination complaint?

No, it is unlawful for an employer to retaliate against you for filing a claim. If this occurs, it could constitute further legal breaches.

10. Where can I find more information about my rights under New Zealand's job discrimination laws?

The Human Rights Commission and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) provide extensive resources and guidance on understanding your rights.

Additional Resources

For more information and support, consider reaching out to the following resources:

  • Human Rights Commission: Offers advice and assistance to individuals facing discrimination.
  • Employment New Zealand (MBIE): Provides information on employment rights and employment relations.
  • Community Law Centres: Offer free legal advice and support regarding employment issues.
  • Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB): Provides advice and assistance on various matters, including employment issues.

Next Steps

If you believe you have experienced job discrimination and require legal assistance, consider taking the following steps:

  • Document Everything: Keep a record of all incidents, conversations, and relevant documents pertaining to the discrimination.
  • Seek Legal Advice: Contact a lawyer experienced in employment law to assess your case and guide you through your options.
  • Use Available Resources: Reach out to organizations such as the Human Rights Commission for advice and support.
  • Consider Resolution Options: Depending on the situation, explore mediation, lodging a complaint, or other legal avenues.

Remember, everyone is entitled to fair treatment in the workplace, and understanding your rights is the first step in addressing any form of job discrimination.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.