Fees

I aim to keep fees clear and predictable. In most cases, the first step is a free confidential discussion. After that, fees depend on what you want to achieve and which pathway is appropriate.

All fees are exclusive of GST.

  • Your first confidential discussion is free and has no obligation. The goal is to understand what has happened, what you want to achieve, and what options may exist.

  • If your matter has a realistic prospect of leading to a monetary settlement, my fee is usually success-based:

    • 30% of the settlement amount, capped at:

      • $1,500 + GST if the matter settles without mediation (e.g., through negotiation and correspondence).
        This includes researching and drafting the personal grievance letter.

      • $2,400 + GST if the matter settles through MBIE mediation.

    If negotiation and/or mediation does not result in a settlement, and you choose not to proceed further, there is nothing to pay.

    Examples (settlement fee)

    • If a settlement is $2,000 and reached without mediation: 30% = $600 + GST (below the $1,000 cap).

    • If a settlement is $10,000 and reached without mediation: 30% = $3,000, but the fee is capped at $1,500 + GST.

    • If a settlement is $10,000 and reached through MBIE mediation: 30% = $3,000, but the fee is capped at $2,400 + GST.

  • If a matter does not resolve through negotiation or mediation and you decide to proceed to the Employment Relations Authority, representation at an ERA investigation meeting is charged on a daily-rate basis:

    • $4,000 for the first day

    • $3,000 for each subsequent day

    These rates apply only if you choose to proceed to the ERA and engage me to represent you at the investigation meeting.

  • For work that is not aimed at achieving a monetary settlement — or where a success-based fee is not appropriate — I charge:

    • $125 per hour

    Hourly work may include:

    • follow-up meetings for guidance beyond the initial free discussion

    • meeting with an employer to negotiate non-monetary outcomes

    • drafting letters and communications not related to a financial settlement

    • other advisory support as agreed

  • In some matters, additional expenses may arise (for example: filing fees, travel, accommodation, or outside consultation). If any expenses are likely, I will discuss them with you in advance and obtain your approval before they are incurred.

    Any such expenses will only be incurred with your prior approval and will be payable in advance.

How fees are agreed

Before any chargeable work begins, I will explain:

  • the likely pathways forward

  • the fee basis that applies (success-based, hourly, or ERA representation rates)

  • any foreseeable risks or costs so you can decide how you want to proceed

  • any likely expenses (for example: filing fees, travel, accommodation, or outside consultation)

GST

All fees listed on this page are exclusive of GST. GST will be added where applicable.

Book a free confidential discussion

If you’d like to talk things through and understand your options, you can book a free confidential discussion.

No obligation • Confidential • You decide what happens next