Questions for lawyers Found 20

I enrolled in a diploma at a private training establishment because of a particular specialisation. After I paid, they cancelled the specialisation and said I must take a more general course. Do I have any rights to a refund or an alternative?

A local school told us it does not have the resources to support our child, who has additional learning needs, and suggested we look elsewhere. We want him to attend with his brothers and sisters. Is the school allowed to say no?

My teenage son was suspended after a fight at school, and the principal has told us that the board will hold a meeting soon. We are not sure what the process is or whether he can be permanently kept out of school. What should we expect?

We have a dispute with our child’s school over how a behaviour incident was handled. The school will not give us copies of the notes, emails and reports about him. Do we have a right to see his records?

A school camp ended with several students injured after a poorly supervised activity. Parents are asking whether the school breached any legal duty, and whether the school can be held responsible. What are the legal obligations?

My son has been told that he cannot attend the school leavers’ ball or the prize giving because of a disciplinary matter earlier in the year, even though he has completed all his classes. Can a school impose that kind of penalty?

My teenager received a stand-down for repeated defiance. The school told us it is for five days, but a friend says it can be longer or that they may extend it. What limits does the law put on stand-downs?

Our school sends home a letter asking for a donation and then adds extra charges for stationery, camp and activities. Some parents say it is compulsory if you want your child to take part. What is optional and what can the school require?

My daughter received a much lower grade than expected on an NCEA assessment that would affect her university plans. She feels that the marking was inconsistent. Is there a way to challenge the result?

I left university after a year due to personal circumstances, but I borrowed for fees and living costs. Now I am being told that I must repay the loan even though I have no qualification. Is that correct, and are there any exceptions?