Monday Jan 29, 2024
Unpack the Holidays Act: Can I Decline an Annual Leave Request?
Law Lenz: Employment Law Done Right
You have stumbled on the go-to podcast for all things employment law. Whether you’re an employer, HR professional, employee, or just curious about employment relations, we’ve got you covered. Join Sanam, a seasoned employment lawyer, as she demystifies complex legal issues, deciphers employment legislation, shares practical tips, and presents real-world cases. With Law Lenz, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to navigate employment law in New Zealand with confidence. Let’s ensure employment law is done right! Subscribe, follow, and tune in to harness employment relations in your workplace.
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Why subscribe?
Feeling confused or frustrated by employment law? You're not alone.
It shouldn't feel like a burden, and with Law Lenz in your corner, it won't.
Our mission is simple: to make employment law practical, empowering and easy to understand for New Zealand businesses. We help you harness compliance with confidence and clarity.
You might be thinking, "Okay, but how?"
Here's how: we deliver fun, engaging insights straight to your fingertips.
Say hello to Compliance Through the Chaos, our easy-to-digest newsletter designed to keep you informed without the legal jargon. You’ll also get access to practical guides, helpful resources and our podcast Employment Law Done Right to support you every step of the way.
And we’re just getting started. Bite-sized courses and a full library of resources are on the way, all built to help you lead with confidence and get employment law right.
Still on the fence?
Tune into the podcast below. We promise you’ll walk away with real-world tools and a fresh take on workplace compliance.
Episodes
Episodes
Monday Jan 22, 2024
Monday Jan 22, 2024
In December of last year, the landscape of trial periods underwent a significant shift, unraveling new possibilities for every employer out there. This change brings a breath of fresh air, allowing businesses of all sizes to embrace the 90-day trial period clause. If you haven't ventured into trial periods lately or want to ensure you're on the right track, this episode is tailor-made for you.
Join us for an eye-opening discussion on this often-misunderstood clause that can either be your safety net or a potential pitfall. We're delving into the requirements essential for a valid trial period. From the crucial need for agreements made in good faith to providing a reasonable opportunity for advice – every detail matters.
Have you ever wondered about the termination process during a trial period? Maybe you have been in some curly terminations and wanted to know if providing reasons was mandatory? In this episode, Sanam tackles these burning questions and more. Delivering a no-frills discussion that unveils the hard truths around trial periods and getting it right!
In this episode, we explore:
What is a 90-day trial period?
Distinguishing between probation and trial periods
Essential requirements for a valid trial period
Safe terminations and what to do
Crucial warnings and tips on what to avoid
Sanam also sheds light on practical evaluations or pre-employment work trials and how, when used incorrectly, they can impact the trial period. Curious? Listen to our episode on navigating pre-employment work trials HERE.
This podcast is your ticket to staying informed and empowered. Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix!
Connect with Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law insights. Follow us on LinkedIn for legal updates and more!
Got questions? Send them our way, and we might feature them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Resources:
Employment.govt.nz - Trial Periods
90 Day Trial Period Calculator & Tools
Citizens Advice Bureau - Trial Periods
Community Law - Trial Periods
Copeland Ashcroft - Understanding Trial Periods
Edwards Law - 90-Day Trial Periods Are Back
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.
Monday Jan 15, 2024
Monday Jan 15, 2024
Have you ever considered implementing an employee handbook? When was the last time you reviewed your current policies? Amid the hustle of daily operations, the potential of this humble handbook often goes unnoticed. An employee handbook can transform your workplace by creating a more transparent and harmonious environment. Giving your employees one go-to document where they can easily answer any questions they have, might be the missing piece in your workplace.
The world is your oyster when it comes to tailoring the handbook to your business's needs. From absence notification procedures, to incident reporting when it comes to health and safety, and even performance reviews. Discover the advantages of a crystal-clear set of guidelines, from concise policies to seamless procedures. Join Sanam as she discusses the benefits and shares her best tips for crafting a handbook that goes beyond rules, creating a transparent and efficient workplace for your team.
In this episode, Sanam examines:
What elements should be included in your employee handbook?
The profound purpose behind these essential guides
Navigating the landscape of equality and disadvantages
The pivotal role of employee feedback in refining your handbook
Essential tips for effective acceptance and signature requirements
Top-notch strategies to harness the art of crafting employee handbooks
This podcast is your ticket to staying informed and staying empowered.
Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix!
Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for the key employment law insights. Follow us on LinkedIn for legal updates and more!
Got questions? Send them our way and we'll feature them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com
Resources:
Indeed - Employee Handbook Guide
Sport NZ - HR Policies and Employee Handbooks
Employment NZ - Workplace Policies
Business NZ - What You Need to Know About Policies and Procedures
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.
Monday Jan 01, 2024
Monday Jan 01, 2024
Welcome to the inaugural Ask Law Lenz segment! Happy New Year to all our listeners celebrating today!
Join our host, Sanam, as she delves into a timely question from a New Zealand employer in the hospitality sector. Unraveling the complexities of casual employment, this episode explores the collision of public holidays with set working days and the ensuing questions about holiday entitlements.
Peeling back the layers of New Zealand's employment law, discover the blurred lines between casuals and otherwise working days. If you manage casual employees, this episode is a must-listen! It discusses the delicate balance employers must maintain. Ever wondered what happens when a casual employee sporadically takes sick leave on what used to be an otherwise working day?
As our regular listeners know, Laughs with Law Lenz is a dry joke that Sanam delivers in our fortnightly episodes. We've swapped it this time for a New Year's joke:
Why did the employee bring a ladder to the New Year's meeting? To show the boss they were ready to climb the corporate ladder in the upcoming year!
Don't miss the chance to expand your legal knowledge and join our growing community seeking clarity in the complex world of employment law.
Subscribe and follow this podcast to stay up-to-date with Law Lenz!
Follow us on LinkedIn for legal insights and more! Follow our host on LinkedIn for the latest employment law updates.
Got questions? Send them our way and we'll discuss them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.
Monday Dec 25, 2023
Monday Dec 25, 2023
Merry Christmas from Law Lenz! Hold onto your festive hats because our latest episode is unwrapping the most crucial employment law changes that you won't find under the Christmas tree. The NZ Coalition Government has just dropped two major updates that are set to redefine the game!
In this episode, join Sanam for a quick legal update covering the Employment Relations (Trial Periods) Amendment Bill. Forget about the typical Christmas present – Sanam delves into the Government's commitment to inject dynamism into the job market and create new opportunities by extending 90 day trial periods to all employers.
And let's not forget about the repeal of the Fair Pay Agreements (FPA) legislation. Sanam breaks down what this means for workplaces, offering insights into the ripple effects and what you need to know.
This episode is your ticket to staying informed on the pulse of employment law changes in NZ.
Stay informed, stay empowered. Subscribe and follow Law Lenz for your regular legal fix!
Follow us on LinkedIn for legal insights and join our host on LinkedIn for the latest employment law updates.
📬 Got questions? Send them our way and we'll discuss them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com
Resources:
MBIE Fair Pay Agreements Legislation
Employment NZ: 90 Day Trial Periods Extended to All Employers
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.
Monday Dec 18, 2023
Monday Dec 18, 2023
Another year, another round of public holiday puzzles! While public holiday entitlements might seem straightforward for those on the 9 to 5 grind, the intricacies of rotating rosters and weekend shifts add layers of complexity to an already intricate area of law.
Tune in for a deep dive into the Holidays Act with Sanam as she not only deciphers the complexities of otherwise working days, public holidays on weekends, and challenges faced by on-call employees but also distills key lessons from the Wendy's Hamburgers cases and demystifies Monday-isation and Tuesday-isation.
As we bid farewell to 2023, we will leave you with golden nuggets of wisdom and actionable insights. By the end of the episode, you'll have a backstage pass to understanding public holidays—essential for both leave-juggling employers and employees eyeing that extra day off.
Episode highlights:
Defining and navigating otherwise working days
Lessons learned from the Wendy's Hamburgers cases
Monday-isation and Tuesday-isation demystified
On-call employees and their holiday entitlements
When leave and public holidays collide
Key takeaways for a holiday-ready workplace
Subscribe and follow this podcast to stay up-to-date with Law Lenz!
Follow us on LinkedIn for legal insights and more! Follow our host on LinkedIn for the latest employment law updates.
📬 Got questions? Send them our way and we'll discuss them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com
Resources:
Employment NZ: Determining Otherwise Working Day
Employment NZ: Otherwise Working Day Tool
Wendy's case: Wendco (NZ) Ltd v Labour Inspector of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment [2017]
Employment NZ: Public Holidays and Leave
Employment NZ: Public Holiday Falls on Saturday
Employment NZ: Public Holidays Fall on a Sunday
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.
Monday Dec 04, 2023
Monday Dec 04, 2023
Whether referred to as work trials, practical evaluations, or interviews, a pre-employment work trial serves as a valuable resource for employers and HR professionals. It allows a comprehensive assessment of an individual's skills before extending a job offer, recognising that a brief interview might not always suffice.
Join Sanam in this episode as she navigates the complexities of work trials—a tool both advantageous and potentially dangerous in the landscape of employment. Sanam not only examines the effective utilisation of work trials but also delves into the legal ramifications associated with their misapplication.
In this episode, we'll cover:
Defining the essence of work trials
Strategically implementing work trials – understanding when and how
In-depth analysis of notable cases: The Salad Bowl Limited v Howe-Thornley (2013) and Mawhinney v Sfizio Ltd (2019)
Unveiling the legal position and extracting key lessons from these pivotal cases
Exploring the risks and consequences when work trials take an unfortunate turn
Proactive guidance on how to appropriately and securely harness the potential of work trials
Equip yourself with the knowledge needed to make sound decisions in your employment practices. Whether you're an employer, HR professional, or someone curious about the intricacies of hiring processes, this episode promises valuable insights.
Don't miss out on these valuable insights! Subscribe and follow this podcast to stay up-to-date with Law Lenz!
Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest legal insights and more!
Got questions? Send them in, and we'll discuss them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com
Resources
Beware of pre-employment work trials
Pre-employment work trials – working for a day without pay?
Never conduct an employee work trial
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.
Tuesday Nov 28, 2023
Tuesday Nov 28, 2023
In this impromptu episode of Law Lenz, host Sanam dives into the unexpected world of workplace attire, with a focus on the controversial topic of wearing shorts. Inspired by a Human Resources Director New Zealand article, we explore the findings of a survey conducted by Frog Recruitment, where 34% of corporate office workers expressed their willingness to wear shorts to work anytime.
In this episode, Sanam shares personal insights and anecdotes, reflecting on the evolving landscape of workplace dress codes. She navigates through the nuances of setting clear and practical policies. With practical tips for managers on how to approach these situations proactively, we explore the delicate balance between maintaining professionalism and adapting to the changing norms in corporate culture.
Tune in for a light-hearted yet insightful exploration of the complexities of workplace dress code policies, especially in a post-remote work era.
Subscribe and follow this podcast to stay up-to-date with Law Lenz!
Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest legal insights and more!
Got questions? Send them in, and we'll discuss them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com
Resources
Shorts at work: Should employers allow it?
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.
Monday Nov 20, 2023
Monday Nov 20, 2023
Annual closedowns are a common practice for businesses across New Zealand. While providing notice to employees is standard, compliance with the Holidays legislation involves more than meets the eye.
If you're contemplating a closedown, this episode is tailored for you! Whether you are looking for a refresher or new insights, we've got you covered. Explore the intricacies of closedowns, including:
Defining closedown periods
Understanding the basics of closedowns
Closedown payment guidelines under the Holidays Act
Key takeaways from Metropolitan Glass and Glazing Ltd v Labour Inspectorate, Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment
Subscribe and follow this podcast to stay up-to-date with Law Lenz!
Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest legal insights and more!
Got questions? Send them in, and we'll discuss them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Resources:
Employment New Zealand: Annual Closedowns
Employment New Zealand: Leave in Advance
Holidays Act: Closedown Periods
Employment New Zealand: Closedowns Flow Chart
Employment Court: Metropolitan Glass Judgment
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.
Friday Nov 10, 2023
Friday Nov 10, 2023
You can no longer use 90-day trial periods when hiring employees on an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV). This episode provides a quick legal update on the changes introduced by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) on 29 October 2023. If an AEWV impacts you or you have an application pending with INZ, then this update is for you!
Subscribe and follow this podcast to stay up-to-date with Law Lenz! Share this podcast with your friends and colleagues.
Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest legal insights and more!
Got questions? Send them in, and we'll discuss them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Resources:
Immigration NZ - Changes to 90-Day Trial Periods on Accredited Employer Work Visa
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.
Monday Nov 06, 2023
Monday Nov 06, 2023
Did you know that in New Zealand, you can hire a 5 year old? It’s true, New Zealand has no minimum age limitations for employees. But like any area of employment law, there are rules that employers need to follow.
With the holiday season fast approaching and business getting busier, will you be hiring young people? If you're a business owner gearing up for summer or just keen to navigate the hiring process, we’re here to equip you with the knowledge you need. Join me in this episode as we delve into the tips around hiring young people.
This episode covers:
Industry restrictions and requirements for hiring young people
Pay requirements and options depending on worker age
The advantages of young workers
Subscribe and follow this podcast to stay up-to-date with Law Lenz!
Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest legal insights and more!
Got questions? Send them in, and we'll discuss them in our next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com.
Resources:
WorkSafe New Zealand: Young People at Work
Employment New Zealand: Minimum Wage Rates
Employment New Zealand: Different Types of Minimum Wage Rates
Employment New Zealand: Hiring Young People
Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.
Hi, I'm Sanam!
I'm a seasoned employment lawyer with a twist.
By day, I’m an in-house lawyer advising across ANZ, SEA, CA and the UK. By night, I switch gears to host Employment Law Done Right; the podcast where I share sharp, practical insights for employers, managers and HR professionals across New Zealand.
So, why the podcast? Why Law Lenz?
After more than eight years in the legal trenches, often being called in as a last resort when personal grievances hit the fan, I knew something had to change. Too many businesses were stuck in reaction mode, and it was clear why. The information available was confusing, overly technical, and often contradictory.
That's where Law Lenz comes in.
I created Law Lenz to make employment law simple, practical and engaging. It's designed to give New Zealand businesses the clarity and confidence they need to stay compliant and thrive.
Now, I’m on a mission to make compliance less intimidating and much more actionable. The podcast is just the beginning, and I’m inviting businesses to come along for the ride.
Ready to see employment law differently?