Employment, Health and Safety

The relationship between employers and employees are often harmonious and mutually beneficial. However, when disputes arise, they can attract unwanted public attention which can be damaging to a reputation or brand. Companies need to be able to anticipate workplace disputes, as well as have decisive strategies in the face of any incidents.

Whether an employer is looking for assistance structuring new employment agreements, or needs assistance settling personal grievance claims, our team is there to provide all the employment-related services they require.

We also offer clients services in health and safety, compliance and litigation and are experts in industrial relations.

We advise on a broad range of contentious and non-contentious aspects of New Zealand employment law. Our lawyers assist with the protection of confidential information, enforcement of restraints of trade, misconduct issues and performance management, and can help during the sale, merger, or outsourcing of a business with issues like redundancy and restructuring.

Our finance experts also assist with issues around superannuation and KiwiSaver, and we provide support during issues relating to human rights, privacy, harassment and worker’s compensation.

We offer complete case management of any health and safety related prosecutions and liaise with all stakeholders in a fatal accident inquiry, including working with our clients to develop media strategies.

The most effective way to manage health and safety incidents is to avoid them in the first place, and we are also experienced in drafting company policies and health and safety compliance advice. With a deep knowledge of the issues around health and safety, our practice interacts with other aspects of our clients' businesses, including drug and alcohol policies and issues in relation to drug testing in the workplace.

Should the worst occur, we liaise with enforcement agencies (including WorkSafe) regarding investigations and represent clients throughout a prosecution, including through to sentencing if necessary.

The relationship between employers and unions can be difficult, but with the right counsel, employers can minimise disputes and come to pragmatic, effective resolutions.

We provide employers with meaningful solutions on a variety of matters including collective bargaining issues and the terms of collective agreements. Our experience during bargaining also includes advice regarding industrial action – both in terms of strategic advice and where necessary, injunctions to enforce an employer's legal rights.