[2020] NZIACDT 7, NLT v Coetzee (Kelly Dee Coetzee)

“Sanctions decision / failure to enter written agreement with client / failure to exercise due care / complainant employed as a contractor / adviser advised complainant could still get residence as a contractor / INZ told adviser complainant needed to remain an employee for work visa / complainant claimed compensation for various expenses & losses & refund of fees / Code of Conduct 2014, cl1, cl18 / Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007, s50, s51 / adviser’s misconduct at lower end of spectrum / high degree of carelessness in relation to advice about being an independent contractor / no systemic problem with adviser’s professional practice / adviser learnt from process & has greater understanding of professional obligations / compensation declined / expenses and losses did not arise from adviser’s misconduct / complainant received what he had contracted for so no refund of fees / adviser cautioned & ordered to pay $1,500 penalty.”