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I have a dispute with my landlord or employer. What can I do if I can't afford a lawyer?

You can get free help from CAB or a Community Law Centre. CAB can explain your rights and refer you to your local Community Law Centre for legal advice. If you need a lawyer, you can apply to the Ministry of Justice for Legal Aid. Legal Aid may cover civil disputes, for example about housing or work.

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From the guide “Free advice and legal aid”Last verified Official pages checked daily

Official figures

CAB free phone
0800 367 2221
CAB phone hours
Monday to Friday 9am–4pm, Saturday 9.30am–1pm2
Number of CABs in New Zealand
831
CAB help in other languages
Many volunteers are bilingual. They can help connect you with someone who speaks your language. CAB information is available in some other languages, for example Chinese (Simplified).2
Number of Community Law Centres in New Zealand
241

Official sources

  1. Free community legal helpMinistry of Justice · justice.govt.nz
  2. Migrant ConnectCitizens Advice Bureau New Zealand · cab.org.nz
  3. Get legal aidMinistry of Justice · justice.govt.nz
  4. Contact legal aidMinistry of Justice · justice.govt.nz

Read the full guide: Free advice and legal aid →

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Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.

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