Law Lenz: Employment Law Done Right

Sanam Permal
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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

  1. 1d ago

    How to Run Your Next Disciplinary Meeting Properly

    Very few employers walk into a disciplinary meeting having prepared questions. Host Sanam recently sat in on a disciplinary meeting from the other side of the table, supporting someone close to her rather than the employer. Accusatory language. No structure. Stacked allegations. This could've all been avoided if the employer knew how to run and handle the meeting...properly! There is plenty out there on how to prepare for a disciplinary meeting. There is almost nothing on how to actually run one once you are in the room. That is what this episode is for. In this episode Sanam covers: Why a disciplinary meeting is a fact finding mission The section 103A test, and the four things the ERA will check Important prep tips that make for a better meeting How to frame questions correctly and the four types of questions you need to know Meeting must haves and the mistakes that sink employers fastest The line to take away. The quality of your questions is the quality of your defence. Mentioned in this episode: Section 103A of the Employment Relations Act 2000, the test of justification Section 4 of the Employment Relations Act 2000, the duty of good faith Employment New Zealand guidance on resolving problems and disciplinary processes We do employment law differently at Law Lenz! How? Through unique workshops and hands-on training. On The Front Foot is open for booking now. It is built for managers and leaders who need to know what they can say and what they cannot before they are in the room. Out Of The Grey is for the HR teams already dealing with the curlier situations. Both at lawlenz.co.nz Check out the Law Lenz website lawlenz.co.nz Want to book a workshop? Book a Clarity Call HERE! Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. Got questions? Email them to ask@lawlenz.co.nz 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.

  2. Jul 10

    Part 3 - ERAA 2026: What's Considered Serious Misconduct & Contribution Today?

    An employee derails a disciplinary process. Or maybe they stole from you and you can prove it. But what if you missed a step in the process? Under the old law, one missed step could still have cost you the case anyway.  This is Part 3 of our three part series on the Employment Relations Amendment Act (ERAA). Since 21 February 2026, the same reforms that reshaped contractor law have also rewritten what an employee gets awarded when their own conduct helped cause the grievance. Join host Sanam as she breaks down the new two-tier contribution structure. From what changes when an employee's conduct contributed to their own dismissal, to what the cases are already showing us, all the way through to the questions you sent through for us to answer. In this episode we cover: The two-tier contribution structure introduced this year Section 123B, the full remedy exclusion for serious misconduct contribution Why lost wages can now be reduced by up to 100% The new obstruction factor under Section 103A and the end of "minor" procedural defects What "deliberate" means when it comes to serious misconduct, and what the case law is already showing Why vague policies are now a genuine liability Your questions on obstruction, procedural gaps, and defining serious misconduct in your own agreements Mentioned in this episode: The Employment Relations Amendment Act 2026, which sets out the two-tier contribution and remedy structure and the updated justification test CMA Law's case note, What Counts as Deliberate: The Johnstone Case and the New s 123B, covering Insight New Zealand 2007 Ltd v Johnstone [2026] NZEmpC 101 Frontline Law's commentary, A Significant Shift: Understanding the 2026 New Zealand Employment Law Overhaul, on the risk of the new remedy structure creating a licence to be sloppy RNZ's coverage of the Qube Ports case, ERA finds Qube wrongly fired port workers who refused to work with a colleague they deemed unsafe Check out the Law Lenz website lawlenz.co.nz Want to book a workshop? Book a Clarity Call HERE! Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. Got questions? Email them to ask@lawlenz.co.nz 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.

  3. Jul 1

    Part 2 - ERAA 2026: Gateway Test for Contractors & 30 Day Rule Changes

    A contractor gets hurt on a job. He claims he was actually an employee. A single missing document decides the approach in 2026. This is Part 2 of our three part series on the Employment Relations Amendment Act (ERAA). On 21 February 2026, the biggest shake up to contractor law in 25 years came into force.  Join host Sanam as she breaks down the new gateway test. From what's changed, to what the cases are already showing us, all the way through to the questions you sent through for us to answer. In this episode Sanam covers: When the gateway test applies The five gateway criteria and what each one actually requires Why a written agreement alone will not save you What happens when a contractor fails the gateway test Subcontractor vetting, and where the line sits The end of the 30 day collective coverage rule for new employees Your questions on set hours, exclusivity clauses, and subcontracting Mentioned in this episode: The Employment Relations Amendment Act 2026, which sets out the specified contractor gateway test and removes the 3 day collective coverage rule Quigg Partners' overview, Employment Relations Amendment Act 2026, covering the five gateway criteria in full Stuff's coverage of the marble slab case, The gateway test was initially used before applying the old test. Check out the Law Lenz website lawlenz.co.nz Want to book a workshop? Send your inquiry through HERE! Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. Got questions? Email them to ask@lawlenz.co.nz 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.

  4. Jun 30

    Part 1 - ERAA 2026: The $200k Dismissal Threshold & Trial Period Change

    It has been four months since the Employment Relations Amendment Act 2026 became official. So we put the call out to our Law Lenz listeners. Ask our host Sanam anything. And you did. This episode kicks off a three-part series on the legislation. What it changed, what cases we have seen so far, and the questions you sent through over the last couple of months. In Part 1, Sanam digs into the $200,000 dismissal threshold and the quieter 90 day trial period change that slipped past most people. In this episode we cover: What the threshold actually removes, and what it leaves untouched How annual remuneration is calculated, and why base salary isn't the full story The 12 month transition period, and why the clock is already running Why senior employees can still bring claims, just through a different door The 90 day trial period tightening, and the back door it now closes Listener questions on redundancy, opt-outs, and where the threshold sits for existing staff Mentioned in this episode: The Employment Relations Amendment Act 2026, which sets out the high-income threshold provisions and the trial PG changes Duncan Cotterill's article, Discrimination claims at work: why they may be the new battleground Our previous episode on trial periods: Trial Periods Refresher: How to Avoid Costly Mistakes Check out the Law Lenz website lawlenz.co.nz Want to book a workshop? Send your inquiry through HERE Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. Got questions? Email them to ask@lawlenz.co.nz 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.

  5. Jun 9

    It's Official! Here's What We've Been Building at Law Lenz

    After a couple of months heads down building, Law Lenz officially has a proper home! And Sanam is way too excited about it. In this episode she breaks down what she's been building, what Law Lenz now offers, and why she started it in the first place. Spoiler: too many good employers are getting employment law wrong not because they don't care, but because nobody ever gave them the tools and showed them how. That's the gap Law Lenz exists to fill. Sanam also shares one practical thing you can do on Monday morning that could save you from a personal grievance. Hint: it starts with unclear expectations and it's more preventable than you'd think. Plus a sneak peek at what's dropping next week. A three-part series on the Employment Relations Amendment Act (ERAA) changes, where things actually sit now, and Sanam answering listener ERAA questions. In this episode we cover: Why Law Lenz exists and who it's for Workshops, courses and ER coaching now available The expectation-setting tip that prevents disputes What's coming in the ERAA series Go have a look and let us know what you think. The website is lawlenz.co.nz Sanam would like to extend a massive thank you to the amazing community here on the Employment Law Done Right podcast. This started with an idea and it has grown because of you all. Thank you!  Check out the Law Lenz website HERE Want to Book a Clarity Call? Send your inquiry through to Sanam HERE Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. Got questions? Email them to ask@lawlenz.co.nz 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.

  6. Mar 28

    Quick Legal Update: 1st April KiwiSaver & Minimum Wage Changes

    The two biggest payroll changes of the year land on the same day!  In this episode, join Sanam as she breaks down exactly what changes are coming up on 1 April 2026, what you need to do before your first April pay run, and the questions that are front of mind for employers. Sanam covers: The change to KiwiSaver default rates The pay date rule that trips people up when a pay period crosses 1 April What to do when an employee says they can't afford the increase  The employer contribution trap when a temporary rate reduction expires Employer KiwiSaver contributions for 16 and 17-year-olds  The minimum wage increase  Tune in and have those burning KiwiSaver questions answered by Sanam. Whether you have two employees or two hundred, these changes apply to you. Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Follow me on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. Got questions? Send them our way, and I will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com. Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. Other Minimum Wage Episodes: Minimum Wage is Increasing! Here's Your Quick 2025 Checklist Preparing for the Minimum Wage Increase on 1 April 2024 Resources: Minimum wage set for 2026 - MBIE KiwiSaver changes - IRD 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.

  7. Mar 12

    Sanam is Back! Send Us Your Questions

    Guess who’s back… and newly married! After a couple months away for a big, bold, beautiful and very chaotic wedding, Sanam is back behind the mic! And she is ready to dive into the latest shake up in New Zealand employment law. The Employment Relations Amendment Act 2026 has officially passed. That means new rules, new thresholds, and plenty of questions for employers. What does the contractor gateway test actually mean in practice? Does the $200k unjustified dismissal threshold change the game? And do businesses need to do now? This episode is a quick catch up and an open invitation to the Law Lenz community. Send through your questions and Sanam will tackle them in next week’s deep dive. Send your questions: On LinkedIn HERE By email - asklawlenz@gmail.com  Or drop them down below! Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. 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.

  8. Jan 14

    Bite-Sized Breakdown: Independent Contractors in Practice

    Engaging a contractor usually starts with good intentions. Sometimes it can end with you realising you have an employee on your hands instead. This bite sized breakdown gives you a practical look at why contractor arrangements often fall apart when you move from paper to practice. In this episode, join me, Sanam, as I unpack what a true contractor actually looks like in the real world. Not in theory. Not in templates. In practice. Using everyday examples like plumbers, cleaners, writers and gig workers, this episode explores how contractors should operate day to day. It covers the exact factors the Employment Relations Authority and the Courts focus on when deciding whether someone is genuinely independent or actually an employee. Think control, independence, risk, tools, and how integrated they really are. You will also hear why the legal test does not suddenly change just because the work is modern, digital, or part of the gig economy. Plus a quick update on the contractor law reforms that may be coming later this year, and what still applies right now in New Zealand. Perfect for a coffee break listen. Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Follow me on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. Got questions? Send them our way, and I will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to asklawlenz@gmail.com. Check out the Law Lenz website HERE. Resources: Employee or Contractor - MBIE 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.

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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

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