Workplace issues

#yourquestionsanswered What is an advocate? An employment law advocate provides support for employees facing workplace challenges. Whether you're seeking advice, representation, or assistance in resolving disputes, they stand by your side when tensions escalate at work. Advocates are well-versed in the nuances of employment legislation, including the Employment Relations Act 2000, the Holidays Act 2003, and other relevant statutes. They may come from law, HR or business backg

What is a personal grievance? What happens when you raise one and what are the outcomes?

Can my employer force me to pay for a mistake I have made at work? Read more to understand your rights when your employer wants to deduct from your pay for an error.

What happens to employees when a business is sold? Read on to understand your rights.

Does a final warning mean I am about to be dismissed? What does it mean and what should I do if I receive one?

What should you do if you workplace is toxic or unsafe and impacting on your mental or physical well-being? Read on for information on how to address a toxic workplace.

Understand what it means to have a 'without prejudice' discussion with your employer and when to get legal help.

Learn when your employer can treat you differently from other employees, and when they can't.

How are workplace policies treated during an employment dispute - are they binding and how will they be used in the ERA? Find out what policies are and how they can be applied in an employment dispute.

Your employment agreement should clearly state what hours you will work or how hours will be allocated. If you think your hours don't match your contract, or your employer is being unfair with their rostering, find out what your entitlements are and what to do next.

If you are a New Zealand employee and have a dispute with your employer, one way to address the problem is by raising a personal grievance. But it is important to know that there are strict time limits for when you must raise it. If you miss the deadline, you can lose your chance to be heard. What Is a Personal Grievance? A personal grievance (PG) is a formal way to raise a complaint against your employer if you believe you’ve been treated unfairly in your work. Common exam

How do you know if you are an employee or an contractor? And what difference does it make to your rights and entitlements?

Mediation can be a positive way to resolve an employment dispute quickly and effectively. Read more to find out what it entails.

What is the Employment Relations Authority and how can an advocate help you to navigate its procedures for a positive outcome?

What are the requirements when raising an issue at work for it become a complaint? Practical tips on making a complaint effectively.

Does my employer have to give me one (or more) warnings before dismissing me? What are the rules around warnings in the workplace?

How do you know if your termination is lawful or unlawful? And what can you do if you think it is unfair dismissal?

It can feel like you have nowhere to turn if you are dismissed on a 90 day trial... but you still have rights.

Know the signs that your dismissal may have been unfair and what you can do about it.

What happens during a workplace investigation?