Employment

Kiely Thompson Caisley is a boutique firm with specialists in employment litigation, particularly regarding unfair dismissal issues. The team boasts wide-ranging experience in the High Court, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court, and is regularly instructed by employers in collective bargaining and strike action matters. The firm represents global corporations and major domestic businesses, advising them on health and safety and employment-related immigration issues.

"Kiely Thompson Caisley is commercially astute, and deliberately works to gain a deep knowledge and understanding of its client's business and industry trends."

"KTC is an established NZ law firm with a strong, experienced employment team. The lawyers have a keen eye on the commercial realities of the application of employment law to the workplace."

Kiely Thompson Caisley acted for Air New Zealand Ltd in the Employment Relations Authority dispute around AirNew Zealand’s refusal to roster duties to a pilot on a B777 plane once he had turned 65.

Peter Kiely has extensive experience of advising on high-profile employment disputes. "Peter is extremely competent and professional."

Andrew Caisley is respected in the market for his handling of industrial relations matters, particularly collective bargaining, for a number of major employers. "Andrew is a brilliant strategist and a highly effective advocate. He has deep knowledge of all aspects of workplace relations law in New Zealand." "He is fantastic and an absolute weapon in terms of how he can strategise things."

David France is an experienced litigator with a long track record of acting for employers across a range of industries, including education and manufacturing. "David France is outstanding. He is able to make complex matters easy to navigate and works well with senior leaders." "David is an absolute pleasure to work with. He is always calm, considered and gets the job done."

Scott Worthy is particularly focused on employment litigation. He has advised a range of clients in different sectors, including airlines and trade, in relation to contentious employment issues. "Scott has a wide range of knowledge and always provides us with options, clearly outlining the risks and benefits involved." "Scott is a reliable, consistent partner who is great at thinking differently to solve problems."

Simon Lapthorne is recognised for his expertise in both contentious and non-contentious matters, including industrial relations, dispute resolution, disciplinary investigations and health and safety prosecutions.