Auckland Community Law Centre has launched a free legal advice clinic at the Employment Relations Authority.

The new clinic complements an existing clinic at the Employment Court and will be held every Wednesday from 1:30 to 4:30pm at the ERA (level 10, The 280 Centre, 280 Queen Street, Auckland).

Open to unrepresented people involved in Employment Relations Authority proceedings, the new clinic was launched on 1 May to celebrate International Workers' Day.

“Employment is a priority area of law for us,” says Darryn Aitchison, General Manager, Auckland Community Law Centre.  

“Secure employment and a reliable source of income is a mainstay of family well-being.  When employment issues arise, cash-flow is often disrupted and families start to suffer.  Having access to justice is a crucial way of making sure workers’ rights are upheld.”

The Auckland Community Law Centre says the clinic will be able to help people decide whether to bring a claim, fill out the application form, prepare their case, comply with all the ERA rules, and present their case in the best way.

“Litigating for yourself is too difficult for most people,” Mr Aitchison says.  

“Lack of support acts as a barrier, and stops people bringing legitimate cases. This reduces accountability and undermines people’s rights.  This service is a small step in reducing those barriers.”