Hey, I'm Sonia

Facing a problem at work can be stressful enough without worrying about the cost of getting help. That’s why WorkDefence NZ offers No Win, No Fee support for eligible employment matters.

I’m the founder of WorkDefence NZ and an experienced HR and People & Culture professional. I’ve spent my career on the employer side of the table, managing complex employment matters from inside HR — including personal grievances, disciplinary processes, investigations, performance management, restructures, redundancies and workplace disputes.

I know how HR works because I’ve worked inside it.

I understand how employers assess employment issues, the processes they’re expected to follow, the questions HR will ask, and where mistakes can be made. Now, I use that experience to help employees understand their position, protect their rights and work towards the best possible outcome.

With WorkDefence NZ, you won’t be passed between different consultants or treated like another case number. You work directly with me from start to finish.

You’ll get clear, practical advice without the confusing jargon, honest guidance about your options, and strong advocacy when you need someone in your corner.

You know what happened. I know how HR works. Together, let’s work out your best way forward.

Frequently asked questions

It all began with a simple idea fueled by a deep passion. As a small business, we pride ourselves on personal attention and dedication to every detail. Our approach is rooted in quality and integrity, ensuring that everything we do reflects our commitment to excellence.

What can Work Defence NZ help me with?

We support employees with personal grievances, disciplinary matters, unjustified dismissals, performance concerns, workplace bullying, restructures, redundancies, suspensions, forced resignations, unpaid wages and other workplace disputes.

How does your No Win, No Fee service work?

For eligible matters, you don’t pay an upfront professional fee. If we achieve a financial outcome for you, our agreed success fee is deducted from the amount recovered. If there is no financial outcome, you don’t pay the success fee. Terms and eligibility apply.

How much is the No Win, No Fee success fee?

Our success fee is 20% + GST of the financial amount recovered for you. We explain the fee and terms clearly before you decide to proceed, so you know exactly how it works from the beginning.

Is everything I tell you confidential?

Yes. Your circumstances and information are treated confidentially and with care.

What happens after I contact Work Defence NZ?

We start with a confidential conversation about what’s happening. We’ll assess your situation, explain your options and recommend the best way forward.

Does every case qualify for No Win, No Fee?

No. We’ll first assess your situation, the available evidence and potential outcome to determine whether your matter is suitable for No Win, No Fee.

Can you attend a meeting with me?

Yes. We can prepare you for and attend disciplinary, investigation, performance, restructure and other employment meetings with you.

Can you write letters and responses for me?

Yes. We can prepare personal grievances, responses to allegations, consultation feedback, settlement correspondence and other employment-related documents.

When should I contact you?

The earlier, the better. You don’t need to wait until you’ve been dismissed or formally disciplined. Getting advice before you respond or attend an important meeting can put you in a much stronger position.

Beyond the ordinary

This is where our journey begins. Get to know our business and what we do, and how we're committed to quality and great service. Join us as we grow and succeed together. We're glad you're here to be a part of our story.