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Our services
Process

Our assessment begins with a detailed review of your employment agreement, company policies, and the circumstances of your termination. We analyze entitlements under the Employment Relations Act 2000, including any contractual redundancy provisions, the requirement for good faith consultation, and potential personal grievance claims for unjustified dismissal. A typical case review involves scrutinizing 12-24 months of employment records to build a robust claim. We then engage in without prejudice negotiations, aiming for a swift and favorable settlement. For complex cases involving specific professions, our approach is informed by specialized knowledge, such as that detailed for Severance Pay For Software Engineers.
At a Glance
| Parameter | Reference Value |
|---|---|
| Typical Case Review Scope | Employment agreement & 12-24 months records |
| Primary Governing Law | Employment Relations Act 2000 |
| Common Notice Period | 4-8 weeks |
| Negotiation Phase | 2-6 weeks |
| Authority Filing Deadline | 90 days from grievance |
Local Considerations — New Zealand
Severance scenarios for project managers can vary across New Zealand's economic landscape. In Auckland's competitive tech and construction sectors, redundancy may follow project completion or agile restructuring, often with complex contractual terms. Wellington's public sector and government-adjacent contractors face distinct processes under state sector guidelines. Christchurch's rebuild and infrastructure projects have their own cycles of demand and downsizing. Our national expertise allows us to navigate these regional industry nuances, ensuring advice is tailored whether you are based in the major hubs or other centers, providing consistent, high-level support across the country.
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Our team reviews your project and issues an initial report at no cost.
Or write us directly at info@employmentlawyer24.org
Standards & Compliance
- Employment Relations Act 2000
- Good Faith provisions (Part 1, S 4)
- Holidays Act 2003
- Privacy Act 2020 (for personal information handling)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is typically included in a severance package for a project manager?
A severance package usually includes outstanding wages, holiday pay, the agreed notice period (or pay in lieu), and any redundancy compensation stipulated in your contract or policy. It may also include an ex gratia payment, a reference, and agreed terms on confidentiality.
What is the 90-day rule for raising a personal grievance?
You have 90 days from the date your employment ended, or the date the action causing the grievance occurred, to raise a personal grievance with your employer. This strict deadline is critical for preserving your legal rights to challenge a dismissal.
Can I negotiate my severance if I have a fixed-term contract?
Yes. While fixed-term contracts end on a specified date, if the reason for non-renewal amounts to a redundancy or unjustified dismissal, you may have grounds for negotiation. The employer must have a genuine reason based on reasonable grounds for not renewing.
How much does severance pay advice for project managers in New Zealand cost?
Costs depend on case complexity, documentation volume, and negotiation duration. We typically provide an initial assessment for a fixed fee, with subsequent representation offered on a transparent hourly basis or a fixed project fee. A specific quote is provided following a detailed case evaluation.