The Rules Committee (the statutory body which makes rules for courts and tribunals in New Zealand) today announced a recommendation to increase the Disputes Tribunal jurisdiction from $30,000 to $70,000.
The full report of the Improving Access to Civil Justice sets out a number of recommendations. The most striking recommendation is the proposed increase in financial jurisdiction.
This change will have far reaching consequences for consumers and businesses. The change will reduce the upfront cost and complexity of resolving disputes between parties. It also means having in depth advice and experience in your corner will provide an immense benefit for larger claims.
Other proposed changes include:
- If the parties agree, increasing the jurisdiction to $100,000.
- Expanding appeal rights to the District Court for claims over $30,000.
- Allowing the Disputes Tribunal to award reimbursement of the filing fee.
- Requiring all Disputes Tribunal Referees to be legally qualified.
- Limiting the discretion of Disputes Tribunal referees to determine matters on the merits of justice (rather than the law).
Ashton Legal has an established practice of assisting both applicants and respondents in Disputes Tribunal cases across New Zealand. See our Ashton Legal Disputes Tribunal service for more information.