Law Lenz: Employment Law Done Right
You're going to have to make a call. But you're not sure it's the right one.
That's the moment this podcast was built for.
Employment Law Done Right is for HR professionals, people leaders, and employers in New Zealand who are in the thick of it. Not the theory of it. The 90-day trial period expiring this week. The performance process that got complicated the moment an employee disclosed a mental health condition. The disciplinary process where someone resigned midway and is now threatening a personal grievance.
Hosted by Sanam Permal, a practising lawyer in New Zealand and Australia. She founded Law Lenz, an employment law training business, in 2023 and it started with this podcast. Every episode covers the real scenarios you face in plain English. Case breakdowns, legal updates, deep dives into the topics that keep you up at night.
She's a lawyer. Just not your lawyer. Instead, she's here to give you the knowledge and skills to back yourself when it matters most.
New episodes drop fortnightly. Visit lawlenz.co.nz
What's the podcast about?
You're going to have to make a call. But you're not sure it's the right one.
That's the moment this podcast was built for.
Employment Law Done Right is for HR professionals, people leaders, and employers in New Zealand who are in the thick of it. Not the theory of it. The 90-day trial period expiring this week. The performance process that got complicated the moment an employee disclosed a mental health condition. The disciplinary process where someone resigned midway and is now threatening a personal grievance.
Hosted by Sanam Permal, a practising lawyer in New Zealand and Australia. She founded Law Lenz, an employment law training business, in 2023 and it started with this podcast. Every episode covers the real scenarios you face in plain English. Case breakdowns, legal updates, deep dives into the topics that keep you up at night.
She's a lawyer. Just not your lawyer. Instead, she's here to give you the knowledge and skills to back yourself when it matters most.
New episodes drop fortnightly. Visit lawlenz.co.nz
Episodes
Dec 25, 2023
Dec 25, 2023
4 min
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.
Dec 18, 2023
Dec 18, 2023
31 min
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.
Dec 4, 2023
Dec 4, 2023
22 min
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.
Nov 28, 2023
Nov 28, 2023
13 min
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.
Nov 20, 2023
Nov 20, 2023
29 min
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.
Nov 10, 2023
Nov 10, 2023
4 min
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.
Nov 6, 2023
Nov 6, 2023
14 min
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.
Oct 26, 2023
Oct 26, 2023
59 sec
Here is a quick look at what Law Lenz has to offer!
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.
Oct 24, 2023
Oct 24, 2023
17 min
The National Government is in, and Labour is out! In this podcast, I discuss the upcoming changes in New Zealand to Fair Pay Agreements, trial periods, immigration and much more.
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
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! 👋
Most employment disputes I’ve seen were preventable.
Many of the employers I’ve worked with were trying to do the right thing. That’s rarely the problem. The problem is that good intentions don’t mean much when you were never taught the process.
A conversation handled wrong. A warning that wasn’t documented. A good faith misstep early on. By the time it becomes a grievance, it’s much harder to fix.
That’s the gap Law Lenz is here to close. Not a lawyer you call when things go wrong. But the knowledge and skills to handle it before it gets there.
I’m a practising employment lawyer, admitted in both New Zealand and Australia. I built Law Lenz because I kept seeing the same thing play out. Good employers. Wrong outcomes. Disputes that never should have happened.
That’s why in 2023 Law Lenz started with a podcast centered on helping businesses understand employment law. Because a better workplace doesn't just come from fixing culture, it comes from getting your compliance right.
Ready to see employment law differently?