Newsletter
The Law Lowdown – AUTUMN 2026
Catch up on all the news and information in this edition of The Law Lowdown Inside this issue: Download your copy here
April 15, 2026
Our Blog
Employment
Unjustified Dismissal: When Getting the Process Wrong can be Costly
Unjustified dismissal claims remain one of the most common types of personal grievances in New Zealand. While many employers understand the need for a valid reason to dismiss an employee, it is often the process, rather than the reason itself, that determines whether a dismissal is lawful. Two common scenarios help illustrate how things can
April 15, 2026
Family Trusts and Estate Planning
Can Trustees be Personally Liable to Beneficiaries? A Practical Example
Trusts are widely used in New Zealand to hold property and manage family wealth. However, a common misunderstanding is that trustees are protected from personal liability simply because they act in that role. In reality, trustees can be held personally accountable – including to the beneficiaries of the trust. A simple example helps illustrate how
April 15, 2026
General
Dog Control Act Under Review: What it Could Mean
The Government has announced a review of the Dog Control Act 1996, following growing concern about roaming and uncontrolled dogs and a number of widely reported attacks. The review comes after feedback from councils and Local Government New Zealand that the current legislation is outdated and, in some cases, limits their ability to respond effectively.
April 15, 2026
Conveyancing
When a Property Flip Goes Wrong: The Cost of Failing to Settle
Property speculation, particularly short-term “flipping”, became increasingly common during the rapid rise in property values seen in New Zealand between 2020 and late 2021. However, the sharp market correction that followed through 2022 and 2023 exposed the risks of this strategy. The High Court case of Smallridge v Singh [2025] NZHC 242 provides a clear
April 15, 2026