Questions for lawyers Found 360

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?

I missed the deadline for filing my income tax return this year because of personal circumstances, and I am worried about what penalties Inland Revenue might apply. What are the consequences of late filing and can they be reduced?

My sibling and I are the only beneficiaries under our mother’s will, and we are meant to share everything equally, but we cannot agree on how to divide her belongings and who should keep the house. What happens if beneficiaries cannot agree?

A parcel arrived with a set of kitchen knives I never ordered. A week later I received an invoice and then a threatening reminder about debt collection. I had not even opened the package. Am I obliged to pay, or to send the goods back at my own cost?

A client owes my small business a sizeable sum for work I completed months ago. They keep promising to pay but never do. I would like to know where I should take a claim, how much it is likely to cost and whether I really need a lawyer to do it.

My logistics business contracts out some deliveries to independent owner-drivers. One of them was involved in an accident while making a delivery for us, causing damage to a third party’s property. Could my business be held responsible even though the driver is not our employee?

My ex has been threatening me and turning up at my home. I am scared but I do not know if this counts as family violence or how quickly I can be protected. How do I apply for a protection order, and will he find out?

I was charged with common assault after an argument outside a bar turned physical. I have never been in trouble before and I am worried about my job. What is the process from here and what are the possible outcomes?

A tradesperson did poor work on my house several years ago and I only recently discovered the full extent of the problem. I am worried I have run out of time. What are the time limits for bringing a civil claim in New Zealand?

I bought a car from a private seller after viewing it twice. The seller said it had never been in an accident, but a repairer has now found evidence of serious past crash repairs. The seller is not answering my messages. Can I get my money back given it was not a dealer sale?