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# Employment Lawyer Wellington, New Zealand, Phil Mitchell

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://philmitchell.co.nz/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Pages
- [Redundancy and Restructuring – Employer](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employers/redundancy-and-restructuring-employer/): Is your business in need of a restructure due to experiencing financial issues? Or because you can see ways to increase productivity and / or efficiency? Restructuring is sometimes inevitable in the lifecycle of your business, and it often comes with redundancies. It can be challenging for business owners and managers to deal with the process on their own and ensure that your legal obligations are met, and also that you are communicating clearly and compassionately with affected staff. Phil Mitchell is an experienced employment lawyer who can support you in the process.
- [Performance Improvement Plans – Employer](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employers/performance-improvement-plans-employer/): Staff performance is usually straight forward to monitor, but can be very difficult to address when things go wrong. “Perception is reality” the saying goes, and that is particularly the case in employment situations. It is not uncommon for an employee to think they are doing a wonderful job, whilst their supervisors and co-workers don’t share that view. Managing a performance issue is different to managing a misconduct issue. It’s important to use the correct process for the issue you have with your employee.
- [Harassment and Bullying – Employer](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employers/harassment-and-bullying-employer/): Harassment has been defined as any unwanted physical, verbal (or non-verbal) conduct based on grounds of race, religion age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, which is offensive, degrading or humiliating to the recipient.
- [Disciplinary Matters – Employer](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employers/disciplinary-process-employer/): Disciplinary processes are by nature contentious and emotionally charged, and they can easily spiral into expensive and protracted disputes. It is important to have an employment lawyer advising you when you are undertaking an employment investigation or disciplinary process to ensure that the process is fair and reasonable. Allegations need to be investigated thoroughly, affected employees have a right to participate in every stage of the process, and decisions must be proportionate. Without quality employment law advice, employers expose themselves to liability for a personal grievance claim.
- [Accusations of Dishonesty – Employer](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employers/accusations-of-dishonesty-employer/): Dishonesty doesn't just mean taking property or money from the company or organisation; it can mean much more, for example:
- [Personal Grievances – Employer](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employers/personal-grievances-employer/): Has an employee raised a personal grievance against you? Are you unsure what to do in this situation and how to make sure you make an effective response, while at the same time following your legal obligations? Personal grievances are sadly a cost of employing people and most businesses will experience one sooner or later.
- [Disciplinary Hearing – Employee](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employees/disciplinary-hearing-employee/): Has your employer accused you of misconduct? Being the subject of an employment investigation or disciplinary process can be intimidating and overwhelming. There is a clear power imbalance, and even if you are innocent it can be difficult to know where to start and what to say. Your career and income are at stake, so it is important that you put your best foot forward.
- [Trial Periods and Probationary Periods](https://philmitchell.co.nz/trial-periods-and-probationary-periods/): Trial periods and probationary periods are options which can be used by employers and employees to assess and make sure that the employee can do the job. These options shouldn’t be used instead of a proper recruitment process.
- [Redundancy and Restructuring – Employee](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employees/redundancy-and-restructuring-employee/): An employee’s position becomes ‘redundant’ when the position is surplus to the needs of the employer. It is known as a ‘no-fault dismissal’ as the employee’s performance in that role has no bearing on it becoming surplus to the employer’s needs.
- [Performance Improvement Plans – Employee](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employees/performance-improvement-plans-employee/): If an employee is not performing to the standard required by his or her employer, then an informal chat pointing out these shortcomings is often all that’s required. In some cases, informal meetings, development and support are not effective in raising the employee’s performance and the employer will move on to a formal Performance Improvement Plan or “PIP”.
- [Personal Grievances – Employee](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employees/personal-grievances-employee/): A personal grievance is a legal complaint that can be made by people who are, or were, employees.
- [Harassment and Bullying – Employee](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employees/harassment-and-bullying-employee/): Have you been accused of bullying and / or harassment at your workplace?
- [Disciplinary Process – Employee](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employees/disciplinary-process-employee/): The Process
- [Accusations of Dishonesty – Employee](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employees/accusations-of-dishonesty-employee/): It can be extremely upsetting and stressful being accused by your employer of being dishonest in the workplace. With many considerations such as your reputation, financial position, and career, it is important to have the right support through the process. Phil Mitchell has been assisting clients in his employment law practice since 1997, and has a range of highly effective techniques so you are not feeling alone in the process.
- [THANK YOU](https://philmitchell.co.nz/thank-you/): 
- [Contact](https://philmitchell.co.nz/contact/): 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
- [Employment Law Specialist in Wellington](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employers/): Phil Mitchell has supported organisations from high-end corporations to boutique firms. No matter what industry you are in, Phil is there to support you through legal processses and provide advice about various employment law issues in New Zealand. Types of organisations Phil helps:
- [For Employees](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employees/): Phil Mitchell is a lawyer specialising in employment law who can help with employment-related issues. He has been in practise since 1997 and is an expert in a range of issues that might impact you as an employee. Whether you have been made redundant or have had an unfair dismissal, he can offer you legal advice and support you through challenging situations. Other issues Phil can support you with are: workplace bullying, performance improvement plans, disciplinary action processes, accusations of dishonesty, and other employee rights in New Zealand.
- [Terms Of Engagement](https://philmitchell.co.nz/terms-of-engagement/): Set out below is the information for clients of P H Mitchell Barristers and Solicitors Limited (we, us) as required by the Rules of Conduct and Client Care for Lawyers of the New Zealand Law Society (Law Society).
- [Criminal Law](https://philmitchell.co.nz/criminal-law/): Phil has extensive criminal law experience dating back to 1986. He has appeared in all manner of criminal matters and has successfully represented clients charged with minor infringements right through to serious criminal charges carrying 20 years to life imprisonment. He will listen to your concerns, and realises a police enquiry can be the most stressful experience in someone’s life.
- [Limited Licences](https://philmitchell.co.nz/limited-licences/): "If you have lost your driver's licence in New Zealand but need to drive in order to work or take care of your family, you may be entitled to a limited licence.
- [Employment Law](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employment-law/): He draws upon this knowledge when it comes to finding solutions to problems that arise in employment relationships. The great majority of his cases settle at or before mediation, meaning a quick and satisfactory conclusion for clients.
- [Home](https://philmitchell.co.nz/): Phil has acted for both employers (be they large corporations, national charities, or small businesses) and employees Phil understands how both sides think.If you have lost your licence but need to drive in order to work or take care of your family, you may be entitled to a limited licence.Phil has extensive criminal law experience dating back to 1986. He has appeared in all manner of criminal matters and has successfully represented clients

## Galleries
- [Gallery item 12](https://philmitchell.co.nz/gallerie/gallery-item-12/)
- [Gallery item 11](https://philmitchell.co.nz/gallerie/gallery-item-11/)
- [Gallery item 10](https://philmitchell.co.nz/gallerie/gallery-item-10/)
- [Gallery item 9](https://philmitchell.co.nz/gallerie/gallery-item-9/)
- [Gallery item 8](https://philmitchell.co.nz/gallerie/gallery-item-8/)
- [Gallery item 7](https://philmitchell.co.nz/gallerie/gallery-item-7/)
- [Gallerie5](https://philmitchell.co.nz/gallerie/gallerie5/)
- [Gallerie 6](https://philmitchell.co.nz/gallerie/gallerie6/)
- [Gallerie4](https://philmitchell.co.nz/gallerie/gallerie4/)
- [Gallerie3](https://philmitchell.co.nz/gallerie/gallerie3/)
- [Gallerie2](https://philmitchell.co.nz/gallerie/gallerie2/)
- [Gallerie1](https://philmitchell.co.nz/gallerie/gallerie1/)

## Testimonials
- [Iconic National Corporate](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/iconic-national-corporate-2/): Having acted for both employers (be they large corporations, national charities, or small businesses) and employees, Phil understands how both sides think.
- [Iconic National Corporate](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/iconic-national-corporate/)
- [National Financial Group](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/3632-2/)
- [tst](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/tst/): I am text block. Click edit button to change this text. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
- [David G* Khandallah Wellington *Name changed to protect identity](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/david-g-khandallah-wellington-name-changed-to-protect-identity/): I was in a senior role in an international finance company. I made a terrible error of judgment that resulted in a police investigation and serious criminal charges arising. I resigned immediately. I instructed Phil to work on both the criminal and employment law aspects of my case. Phil ultimately negotiated a settlement of the case against me that was before the Employment Relations Authority. Phil also negotiated with the Police at length and had the charge reduced, and ultimately he secured a discharge without conviction and permanent name suppression, (which provided me and my family an opportunity to rebuild our lives). My situation took about 14 months from start to conclusion. Phil supported us the whole way. We developed a great working relationship and Phil was always available to talk  – we even met on weekends. Phil, who has a thorough understanding of the law and  how the “system” works day to day, mapped out a strategy, executed it, and got an amazing result. He was efficient with his time and work in order to keep costs under control. Even the sentencing judge said he was impressed with by Phil’s arguments. Phil achieved the impossible and I have no hesitation in recommending Phil to anybody in serious trouble who needs a committed lawyer who will focus on their case with compassion and interest.
- [Peter T.](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/peter-t/)
- [Martin Tonks](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/martin-tonks/)
- [Rod Miller – Managing Director](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/rod-miller-managing-director/)
- [Ross and Larissa – Plimmerton](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/ross-and-larissa-plimmerton/)
- [Alana Smith Wellington](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/alana-smith-wellington/)
- [Jim Moriarty MNZM, Chairman, Te Rakau Hua O Te Wao Tapu Trust](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/jim-moriarty-mnzm-chairman-te-rakau-hua-o-te-wao-tapu-trust/)
- [Atul Patel was charged with theft from his employer, and was dismissed from his job.](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/atul-patel-was-charged-with-theft-from-his-employer-and-was-dismissed-from-his-job/)
- [Greg was studying at university as an 18-year-old, his first year away from the farm. He faced a serious charge following a student party at his flat. The charge was ultimately withdrawn](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/greg-was-studying-at-university-as-an-18-year-old-his-first-year-away-from-the-farm-he-faced-a-serious-charge-following-a-student-party-at-his-flat-the-charge-was-ultimately-withdrawn/)
- [John was charged with assault with intent to injure after defending himself and his wife in a pub.](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/john-was-charged-with-assault-with-intent-to-injure-after-defending-himself-and-his-wife-in-a-pub/)
- [Joshua Andersen Managing director](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/joshua-andersen-managing-director/)
- [Rob Barber – Waikanae](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/rob-barber-waikanae/): In court Phil was exceptional under pressure and was not afraid to stand up to an extremely aggressive and in my opinion, unprofessional bully of a Judge. Once this Judge realised that Phil was not prepared to accept his attitude, he settled down to hear the case with an entirely different tone. I feel a less experienced lawyer would have crumbled under that much pressure. Phil will stand up for you, he won’t take a backwards step when the pressure is on and he will call it like it is. I have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Phil Mitchell to anyone. Phil will work very hard for you.
- [Reighan & Isaac](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/reighan-isaac/)
- [SL, Manager, Wellington](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/sl-manager-wellington/)
- [James Kaitiana](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/james-kaitiana/)
- [Peter Smith](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/peter-smith/)
- [Jacinta](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/jacinta/)
- [July Townsend](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/july-townsend/)
- [Peter Johnson](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/peter-johnson/)
- [Crystal Laulu](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/crystal-laulu/): Thank you so much Phil! You’re amazing and the thing that never changed was your word: you promised you would get results and look after me and you definitely delivered on that. So grateful for all the work you have done & I am also happy to know there are honest and good people like you out there who seek justice for those who are unable to get do it on their own. Thank you once again 🙂
- [JW Occupational Therapist](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/jw-occupational-therapist/): I am so grateful for Phil’s support in dealing with an employment issue. I was employed for five years by a health board. I had felt bullied by the employer and Phil was very understanding. From my ase, Phil provided me with clear options which ensured that I remained realistic about what was possible. From this, I was able to instruct Phil in negotiating an exit plan from my employer by means of a personal grievance. We succeeded in this and Phil ensured that my rights were respected by the District Health Board. It was helpful to receive some money and the DHB had to also pay for the legal costs. This has allowed me to have a breathing space for a couple of months and I have made new career plans. Most importantly, Phil’s hard work has helped greatly with my self-esteem and my professional integrity has remained intact.
- [DB Senior manager in a multi-national NZ company](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/db-senior-manager-in-a-multi-national-nz-company/): From the moment I first met Phil I knew he was the right man for the job. Phil was instantly likeable but more importantly with his prior career I knew he would be tough. I was always confident that my employment case was in good hands, he was a good communicator, he always kept me updated, told me the blunt truths and the forthcoming risks which I may be exposing myself to. He always however respected my judgement and did not try and persuade me otherwise. I am extremely thankful to Phil for all his hard work and knowledge and was more than delighted with the outcome I had. I can definitely recommend Phil as an employment lawyer who will always “have your back” Thanks so much Phil you were simply amazing!
- [Jay Pereira](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/jay-pereira/): I had a major issue with a diplomatic mission and was adamant on taking them on but not without some trepidation. The best decision I made in this whole episode was taking on Phil Mitchell as my lawyer. In my opinion, he is the benchmark for lawyers- professional, polite, he listens to what you have to say , he fought hard for me resolutely despite intimidation from the opposing side and at times when I was emotional, he had the experience to guide me through, never losing sight of the goal. He had the experience to know when and how to apply the pressure on them to get the best results for me. Suffice it to say, I am very happy and relieved at the outcome. To top it off, he was always mindful of the costs and worked efficiently to keep them well under control. I cannot recommend him highly enough- if you have employment legal issues- he’s your man.
- [Team Leader Health Services](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/team-leader-health-services/): Phil displayed great skill in assisting me with a very complex work issue. He quickly got to grips with the issues maintaining a professional yet pragmatic approach throughout. Would highly recommend
- [Tim Coker (former) Central Regional Manager](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/tim-coker-former-central-regional-manager/): I was a senior manager in a national company. I came to see Phil in early December after becoming the subject of a corporate employment investigation. Phil took over the correspondence between the company and myself which was a huge stress relief for me and my family. My initial desire was to do all i could to keep my job, however, after seeing how the company was handling the investigation I instructed Phil that I felt i could not return to work, and for Phil to negotiate an exit. Phil was able to secure a great settlement at short notice, finalising everything the week before Christmas – he even worked an extra day into his planned leave to ensure everything was finalised before the Christmas break! Throughout the process Phil was available day and night, often responding to emails and txts well after hours. Phil was very clear about what I could expect as a likely outcome from the outset which was a great help. My family and I were able to enjoy the holidays with no immediate stress or pressure financially. Most importantly to me, I was able to resign with a great reference, giving me a true sense of accomplishment. Thank you Phil!
- [Jane Packer | General Manager – Wellington](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/jane-packer-general-manager-wellington/): Thank you so much for all your help. You made a difficult and potentially unpleasant process easy, quick and painless. I was impressed by your intuitive understanding of the issues and professional way in which you handled the process. I am extremely pleased with the outcome and have a sense of peace that I have not felt for some months. I would not hesitate to recommend you to anyone that is looking for an excellent employment lawyer.” Warmest regards
- [Ann Maxwell](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/ann-maxwell/): It’s great to meet a lawyer that while very professional also has a heart and compassion for people going through very stressful situations. After meeting with Phil the stress seemed to instantly melt away. He talked me through the options and helped me make reach a decision regarding my future. I really felt he backed me the whole way. Phil did everything he said he would and kept in touch with me the whole time as the situation with my former employer developed. I would certainly not hesitate to contact Phil if I ever needed a lawyer again and would certainly recommend him to family and friends without hesitation.
- [Cherry Turnbull](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/cherry-turnbull/): We recently worked with Phil after my husband, a senior executive in a major IT firm, was suddenly sidelined by the company. We had never been in this position before and were quite overcome with the enormity of what happened and the way it was done. We were also overwhelmed with Phil’s support, knowledge and professionalism in what was a very difficult few weeks. We both believe that Phil tuned in, both professionally and personally. He understood it all and actually ‘felt’ all our emotions and it was a huge solace to have him ‘in our corner’. The settlement Phil obtained for us enabled my husband to walk away with his head held high. We would certainly have no hesitation in recommending Phil to others
- [Andrea Sarney](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/andrea-sarney/): I was made redundant from my employer of 25 years. It was totally out of the blue. I’m a solo mum with an 11 year old child and a large mortgage. I was at breakdown point. The company offered me a redundancy payment, but I wasn’t too sure if this amount really represented 25 years of service to the company. I had agreed to have a meeting with the finance director, and to be totally honest I was going in to agree with their offer. A friend of mine who was helping me through this tough time told me not to do anything till I had seen Phil Mitchell, a lawyer she had dealt with in an employment dispute months earlier. I was in such a state that part of me just wanted it over and done with, but at my friend’s insistence I rang and made an appointment that day to see Phil. Well, from that moment on everything changed. I arrived at Phil’s office a complete wreck; he handed me a box of tissues and I slowly told him my story while holding back tears. My first impression was his compassion – he gave me time to compose myself and offered a bit of emotional counseling and positive reinforcement. Phil advised me I was entitled to a better redundancy package. He rang the company, rescheduled the meeting and told my employer that I was in no emotional state to return till the meeting in two days time. Those days gave me time to sit in the sunshine and gain some strength and composure. We arrived at the company and sat with the finance director and an HR woman they had flown from in from Auckland. Phil spoke calmly and right from the start and set the meeting in motion – it was an quite empowering moment for me. Phil discussed with the company in a very professional manner the errors made in their process which opened the door to negotiations. At the end of the meeting they had agreed to a package that doubled the amount first offered to me. Phil picked me up from rock bottom and now I have time to spend with my daughter and be financially sound until the right position becomes available for me. Phil was my hero!
- [Karen Albert](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/karen-albert/): Thank you Phil – for the legal stuff but just as importantly for your understanding of the whanau / familial thing – separating it without dismissing their importance to me. Very cool.
- [Greg Sandbrook](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/greg-sandbrook/): I recently required the services of an Employment Lawyer due to an unforeseen redundancy. After doing some research I decided to use Phil Mitchell. During the process I found Phil to be professional easy to deal with and he kept me informed throughout the process. He offered sound advice and achieved the desired outcome promptly and without hassle. In the event I know anyone requiring employment law advice I would happily recommend Phil’s services.
- [Jim Moriarty](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/jim-moriarty/): I was in a senior management role at a large Maori charitable trust when we had to deal with a major restructure and a personal grievance brought by one of the managers whose position was dis-established. Phil worked tirelessly in dealing with a very difficult situation. Phil would be my first recommendation to anyone looking for an effective and hard-working employment lawyer.
- [Petra Anderson](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/petra-anderson/): Through Phil acting for me I felt I regained my self-respect; it was more important than the money. Because I’ve elected to stay working for my employer they have to respect me going forward. I just wanted to be treated fairly. Phil had the skill and expertise that I didn’t have; he was very frank and honest about the expected outcome. I was very happy with the service I received. I actually felt like an individual with Phil – he took the stress away.
- [Andrea F*](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/andrea-f/): I recently contacted Phil Mitchell to discuss a confusing employment situation on recommendation from a friend. Within half an hour, we had agreed on a course of action and I knew exactly where I stood legally. Phil recommended that I didn’t take legal action in my particular case (which speaks volumes for him as a lawyer) but it was an excellent outcome for me, as I knew all the pros and cons. I would recommend Phil again and wish I had seen him sooner.
- [Grieg Elder](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/grieg-elder/): Friendly, helpful and effective. I was able to move on after Phil quickly sorted my personal grievance against my former employer.
- [Pierre Marchant](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/pierre-marchant/): I don’t know any other lawyer who answers his phone at the weekend or after hours. Being able to contact Phil when it suited me, was of great assistance.
- [Amanda McGeorge](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/amanda-mcgeorge/): Phil has a pragmatic and common-sense approach to employment issues that has certainly helped us resolve staff problems in a quick and effective manner.
- [Jennifer, Clerical](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/jennifer-clerical/): Phil was a rock when I was completely stressed out; he didn’t mind me crying in his office!
- [John Carpenter](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/john-carpenter/): Phil was personable and approachable. He provided good, common-sense advice that enabled us to resolve our employment problem quickly.
- [Alison McLeod – Director (McLeod Hart Law Ltd)](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/alison-mcleod-director-mcleod-hart-law-ltd/): I was in a senior legal role with a large organisation. I came to see Phil when the relationship between myself and my employer became complex as a consequence of different expectations of what the role entailed. I instructed Phil to accompany me to a meeting to explore the possibility of resolving the conflict.
- [Deb K, Engineer](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/deb-k-engineer/): Phil helped me through a crucial time in my employment situation. I came to him for assistance and advice with my employment issue, unsure what to do. He expertly laid out what options I had and how to proceed with these. Once I made my decision, he very efficiently and professionally wrapped up my situation and I was able to have a sense of relief I hadn’t felt in awhile. I would definitely recommend Phil as an employment lawyer.
- [M R Singh, Business Development Manager](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/m-r-singh-business-development-manager/): I was unfairly dismissed from my position from a major NZ corporate and Phil’s confidence in the strength of my case encouraged me to pursue the case. His communication was excellent and he provided reassurance during an uncertain time. The way he presented my case made the opposition speechless. Phil is an outstanding lawyer, his level of preparation and attention to detail helped successfully solve my case. I highly recommend Phil.
- [Senior Project Advisor (Autonomous Crown Entity)](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/senior-project-advisor-autonomous-crown-entity/): I would highly recommend Phil Mitchell for your employment related matter. Phil provided me with excellent legal advice, knowledge and expertise. My employment situation was complex and my work environment was layered with ongoing behavioural issues that were having an impact on my wellbeing and sense of self worth.
- [Janine Butcher (Former senior executive of large international company)](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/katy-baby-2/): I approached Phil for urgent advice on an employment matter – I had recently (and unexpectedly!) been advised that my Senior Executive role was being restructured.  Phil made time to meet with me as soon as possible and provided excellent strategic advice on what course of action to take.  Once we agreed on the approach, Phil kept me up to date, and he negotiated a fantastic outcome.  Phil provided outstanding advice and support, I would have no hesitation in recommending his services.
- [Anna N  – National Operations Manager](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/philip-hessel-3/): I engaged Phil as my lawyer at a time when my workplace had become untenable for me to continue working there. I’d never gone to a lawyer for a work related issue before and was very unsure what options I would even have for exiting my work. Phil made time to see me within a couple of days and the initial meeting was over an hour long. Phil listened and was easy to talk to, he suggested a way forward and possible options that I could take in plain language that I understood. I found Phil was always available to talk or answer my emails, and always contacted me to discuss any new development, his reliability on communication was important for me to feel I had somebody advocating for me.
- [Darline Simmons – Former Senior Executive at a national tertiary education institution](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial/jeannine-brent-2/): I would have no hesitation in recommending Phil Mitchell to potential clients. I was impressed from the moment that I called his firm and he personally answered the phone and listened to the brief. There were no delays once initial contact was made and we met, and committed to a plan of action. Response times were immediate throughout the process as negotiations went back and forth; and Phil kept everything unemotional and professional at all times. The no fuss completion of dealing between employer and employee was exceptional and it is without hesitation, I would recommend Phil and his law practice.

## Home Testimonial
- [David G](https://philmitchell.co.nz/home_testimonial/david-g/): I was in a senior role in an international finance company. I made a terrible error of judgment that resulted in a police investigation and serious criminal charges arising. I resigned immediately.
I instructed Phil to work on both the criminal and employment law aspects of my case.
Phil ultimately negotiated a settlement of the case against me that was before the Employment Relations Authority.
Phil also negotiated with the Police at length and had the charge reduced, and ultimately he secured a discharge without conviction and permanent name suppression, (which provided me and my family an opportunity to rebuild our lives).
My situation took about 14 months from start to conclusion. Phil supported us the whole way. We developed a great working relationship and Phil was always available to talk and meet – we even met on weekends. Phil, who has a thorough understanding of the law but as importantly how the “system” works day to day, mapped out a strategy for a very complex situation, executed it, and got an amazing result. He was efficient with his time and work in order to keep costs under control as much as possible. Even the sentencing judge said he was impressed with and persuaded by Phil’s arguments.
Phil achieved the impossible and I have no hesitation in recommending Phil to anybody in serious trouble who needs a committed lawyer who will focus on their case with compassion and interest.

## Landing Pages
- [Criminal Law Landing Page](https://philmitchell.co.nz/criminal-law-landing-page/)
- [Employment Law Landing Page](https://philmitchell.co.nz/employment-law-landing-page/)

## Testimonial Categories
- [Criminal Law Page](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial_categories/criminal-law-page/)
- [Employee](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial_categories/employee/)
- [Employer](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial_categories/employers/)
- [Employment Law Page](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial_categories/employment-law-page/)
- [Home Page](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial_categories/home_page/)
- [Limited License](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial_categories/limited-license/)
- [New Testimonial](https://philmitchell.co.nz/testimonial_categories/new-testimonial/)

Phil Mitchell is a Wellington-based lawyer specialising in employment law, criminal law, and limited licences, providing practical legal advice and strong representation for individuals and organisations across New Zealand.

With legal experience dating back to the 1990s and extensive criminal law experience since the 1980s, Phil has built a reputation for handling complex and high-pressure cases, from workplace disputes to serious criminal charges.

In employment law, Phil advises both employers and employees, offering support across personal grievances, unjustified dismissals, restructuring, disciplinary processes, workplace bullying, and employment agreement matters. His experience acting on both sides allows him to understand the dynamics of employment relationships and deliver balanced, strategic outcomes.

In criminal law, Phil represents clients facing a wide range of charges, from minor traffic offences to serious criminal cases, guiding them through the legal process and working to achieve the best possible result, including reduced charges, discharges without conviction, and name suppression where appropriate.

He also assists clients with limited licence applications, helping individuals regain the ability to drive for essential work or family needs following licence suspension or disqualification.

Operating from central Wellington, Phil Mitchell provides approachable, responsive legal services, including free initial consultations, and is known for his direct communication style, accessibility, and commitment to achieving effective outcomes for his clients.