[2022] NZIACDT 15 — BC v Lawlor (John Desmond Lawlor)

Immigration Advisers Complaints and Disciplinary Tribunal · decided 29 June 2022 · adviser: John Desmond Lawlor

The tribunal's published summary

Sanctions / negligence / numerous breaches of Code / failed to file requests / failed to identify clients’ ineligibility / failed to get approval to change visa category / failed to have written agreement / failed to respond to INZ letter / failed to inform clients they were unlawful & provide updates / failed to advise outcome / did not ensure payment for reconsideration application / failed to confirm details of material discussions in writing / Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007, s3, s50, s51 / Code of Conduct 2014, cl1, cl2e, cl18a, cl26aiii, cl26b, cl26c / HELD / adviser accepted wrongdoing / first appearance before Tribunal / serious professional failures with significant consequences / adverse publicity a usual consequence, of limited relevance for sanctions / health issues at the relevant time / adviser censured / no training directed as misconduct explained by health / $2,000 financial penalty ordered / no submissions for refund or compensation, none ordered

Read the full decision (PDF, Ministry of Justice)

This page reproduces the tribunal's own published summary as a fair report of public tribunal proceedings; the linked decision is the authoritative record. A decision is not itself a finding of wrongdoing — some complaints are dismissed. Complainants are anonymised by the tribunal. Complaints about advisers go to the Immigration Advisers Authority.