Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in New Zealand

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Founded in 1988
20 people in their team
English
GML Lawyers is an Auckland based law firm with a history extending over 40 years, originally founded in 1988 by David Gibbs. The firm provides a broad range of services including family law, employment, real estate and civil litigation, with a track record of handling complex matters for...
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....

Founded in 2019
15 people in their team
English
Fyfe Karamaena Law Ltd is a Wanaka and Dunedin based law firm renowned for its down-to-earth approach and high-quality legal advice. The practice combines practical, straight-forward guidance with deep local knowledge to support individuals, families and businesses across Central Otago and...

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Māori
English
We are a team of experienced and approachable lawyers who deal with a variety of legal matters including property & business sale and purchases (conveyancing), building contracts, wills, trusts, estates, relationship property agreements, enduring powers of attorney and notary services, through...
SD Legal Limited
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2013
10 people in their team
Māori
English
NOT YOUR ORDINARY LAWYERSWe are a boutique modern law firm based in Hamilton that prides itself on exceptional service with strong ethical and professional dedication.​Our lawyers communicate in a language you can understand and concentrate on practical and effective solutions that are unique to...
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...
Jeremy McGuire - Lawyer
Palmerston North, New Zealand

2 people in their team
English
Jeremy McGuire brings substantial commercial and property law experience from practice in Auckland and Wellington to clients in Palmerston North and Feilding. He concentrates on property, family, employment, business and intellectual property matters and combines technical legal knowledge with...
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...
Lane Neave
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 1868
200 people in their team
Māori
English
Lane Neave is committed to solving problems and realising opportunities for our clients.We tap into more than 150 years of experience and provide our hugely talented pool of emerging and current legal experts with the opportunity to make the complex simple.We provide clear, decisive legal advice...
Nicholsons - Lawyers
New Plymouth, New Zealand

English
Nicholsons Lawyers is the oldest law firm in Taranaki, with a long history of serving generations of families and businesses. The firm is trusted by generations of clients and combines deep local knowledge with a practical, common sense approach to delivering legal solutions.The team places a...
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About Sexual Harassment Law in New Zealand

Sexual harassment in New Zealand is regarded as a serious violation of an individual's rights to a safe and respectful environment, whether at work, school, or in public settings. It is characterized by unwanted sexual advances, comments, gestures, or behavior that makes the recipient feel uncomfortable, intimidated, or discriminated against. The Human Rights Act 1993 and the Employment Relations Act 2000 are the key legislative frameworks providing protection against sexual harassment, emphasizing both the protection of human rights and fair employment practices.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where seeking legal advice or representation may be crucial:

  • If you are experiencing sexual harassment and need guidance on how to report and address it.
  • If you are an employee and feel that your employer is not adequately addressing your harassment complaint.
  • If you face retaliation or discrimination after reporting sexual harassment.
  • If you are an employer who needs to understand your legal responsibilities and how to handle complaints.
  • If negotiations or mediation efforts with the harasser or organization are unsuccessful.
  • If you are considering legal action or a claim with the Human Rights Commission or Employment Relations Authority.

Local Laws Overview

New Zealand has several key legal provisions aimed at combating sexual harassment:

  • The Human Rights Act 1993 prohibits sexual harassment in employment, education, and services sectors.
  • The Employment Relations Act 2000 addresses harassment in the workplace and outlines employer responsibilities to provide a safe work environment.
  • Employers are legally obliged to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment and respond effectively to any complaints.
  • Both employees and employers can access support and mediation services through the Human Rights Commission and Employment Relations Authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes sexual harassment in New Zealand?

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome or offensive behavior of a sexual nature, which is either repeated or significant enough to make someone feel offended, humiliated, or intimidated.

Is there a legal time frame to report sexual harassment?

There are no strict deadlines, but it is advisable to report harassment as soon as possible to preserve evidence and enhance the credibility of the complaint.

Can sexual harassment occur outside of employment environments?

Yes, sexual harassment can occur in various settings including schools, universities, public venues, and accommodation services, and is covered under the Human Rights Act.

What steps should I take if I am being sexually harassed at work?

Record incidents, report to a supervisor or HR, and seek legal advice if necessary. It is also helpful to understand your employer's policies on harassment.

Can I file a complaint anonymously?

Complaints may be filed anonymously with some organizations, but it might limit the ability to directly address the issue.

What role does the Human Rights Commission play?

The Human Rights Commission offers guidance, mediation, and support services to individuals experiencing sexual harassment.

What are my employer's responsibilities regarding harassment?

Employers must prevent harassment by implementing policies and responding promptly and effectively to complaints.

Is mediation a necessary step before taking legal action?

Mediation can be a less adversarial and more cost-effective step, but it is not mandatory if the harassment issue warrants legal intervention directly.

Are there penalties for those found guilty of sexual harassment?

Penalties can include compensation to the victim, remedial actions by the employer, and sometimes termination of employment for the harasser.

Can witnesses of harassment also report it?

Yes, witnesses can make reports which can be important for providing evidence and supporting the victim’s case.

Additional Resources

For more information and help, consider reaching out to:

  • The Human Rights Commission for advice and mediation services.
  • The Employment Relations Authority for workplace disputes.
  • Local legal aid and community law centers offering free legal advice.
  • WorkSafe New Zealand for workplace safety and health guidance.
  • Non-profit organizations like HELP Auckland providing support to victims of harassment.

Next Steps

If you are seeking legal assistance in a sexual harassment case, consider these steps:

  • Document all instances of harassment including dates, times, and any witnesses.
  • Review your organization's policies regarding harassment and grievance procedures.
  • Contact the Human Rights Commission or Employment Relations Authority for advice on mediation or formal complaints.
  • Seek a consultation with a lawyer experienced in employment or human rights law to discuss your situation and explore potential legal actions.
  • Stay informed about your rights and available support systems to make empowered decisions.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in New Zealand through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Sexual Harassment, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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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.