Quick answer
In New Zealand, employment lawyers typically charge $250 – $500 per hour. Common fixed-fee work is shown below. Legal aid: Limited — civil legal aid for employment matters has narrow eligibility. Some unions cover member representation.
Typical employment law fees
| Service | Typical NZ fee |
|---|---|
| Hourly rate | $250 – $500/hr |
| Employment agreement review | $300 – $800 |
| Personal grievance letter (raise the grievance) | $600 – $1,500 |
| Mediation representation (MBIE) | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| ERA investigation hearing depending on complexity and length | $5,000 – $15,000 |
Ranges reflect typical NZ market pricing observed across published firm fee guides and Ministry of Justice / NZ Law Society published rates (e.g. court filing fees). Individual firms vary widely. Always get a written engagement letter under Rule 3 of the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act (Conduct & Client Care) Rules 2008 before instructing.
What drives the cost
- • Whether the matter is resolved at mediation or proceeds to ERA
- • Volume of documents and witnesses
- • Quantum of remedies sought
- • Whether the employer is represented
Legal aid
Limited — civil legal aid for employment matters has narrow eligibility. Some unions cover member representation. Apply via your lawyer or the Ministry of Justice — see justice.govt.nz.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does an employment lawyer cost in NZ? ▾
Hourly rates run $250 – $500. Raising a personal grievance is commonly a $600 – $1,500 fixed fee. Mediation representation is $1,500 – $4,000. An ERA hearing typically runs $5,000 – $15,000 depending on complexity.
Is "no win, no fee" available for employment matters? ▾
Conditional fee arrangements are allowed under the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act 2006 (ss333–336) and some employment lawyers offer them for personal grievance claims. The agreement must disclose how the premium is calculated and you remain liable for disbursements regardless of outcome.
How long do I have to raise a personal grievance? ▾
Generally 90 days from the action complained of (e.g. dismissal). Late grievances can be raised with the employer's consent or by application to the ERA, but the bar is high.
Deeper guide: Read the full employment law cost breakdown for worked examples, regional variation and pricing-question scripts to use when calling a lawyer.
Related
Information only — not legal advice. Fees vary by firm, region and matter complexity. Always obtain a written engagement letter under Rule 3 of the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act (Lawyers: Conduct and Client Care) Rules 2008 before instructing.