He moana pukepuke e ekengia e te waka

Choppy waters can be navigated

Shelley is an experienced employment lawyer representing employers and employees in the Employment Relations Authority, Employment Court, District Court and High Court. Complementing that experience, she is a registered mediator, investigator and governor. While studying for her degree in law, Shelley developed a successful career in Human Resources in international law and accounting firms. She has gone on to work in both private practice and inhouse, while growing a governance portfolio spanning iwi (Te Kotahitanga o Te Atiawa), commercial (New Plymouth Airport) and healthcare (Tui Ora).

Reflecting her community commitment, Shelley’s voluntary and charitable work extends to her roles as Trustee of Youthline and St Marys College, a member of the Mothers Project and previous role as Trustee of St Peters College. These unique attributes differentiate Shelley’s approach to the law. She understands and recognises the importance of both a commercial and cultural lens when determining the best strategy for her clients and will help to navigate you through the sometimes complex waters of employment law to ensure the best outcome for all.

Shelley provides advice to both employers and employees across a diverse range of employment law matters including representation in mediation, litigation, and compliance with employment law. She is experienced in traversing the intricacies of disciplinary matters and personal grievances, restructures and redundancies. Shelley provides assistance through the various stages of employment relationships including onboarding (collective bargaining and employment agreements), maintaining the relationship (health and safety, policies and HR Audits) to the end of the relationship (settlements and exit packages).

Shelley is experienced in navigating the complex process of investigations in a sensitive and culturally appropriate manner. She has investigated matters such as bullying, sexual harassment, discrimination, suspected alcohol or drug use, reputational concerns and policy breaches across a range of sectors including banks, retail, religious organisations, Māori organisations, education and charities.

As an experienced and qualified mediator Shelley is skilled at facilitating mediations, be that in respect of an ongoing employment relationship or with one that has, for whatever reason, come to an end. Her focus is on creating opportunities for resolution, working alongside the parties to find their commonalities, allowing them to express their grievances and views in a safe environment.

Shelley is sought after for her skills as a speaker, trainer and facilitator. She has presented on a range of employment law matters for organisations such as New Zealand Law Society, Te Hunga Rōia Māori o Aotearoa, Employers and Manufacturers Association and Conferenz. Shelley is actively involved in facilitating community engagement and mentoring at various colleges and is a regular motivational speaker for youth.

Do you need advice and support regarding employment law, mediation or an investigation? Get in touch to find out how you can partner with Shelley to reach a solution.

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