[2026] NZIACDT 14, AM v Huang (Cook Huang)

“Professional responsibilities and professional practice / Immigration Advisers Licensing Act 2007, s442 / Code of Conduct 2014, cl1, cl4(a), cl5, cl6, cl17b, cl19l and cl20a / adviser failed to send draft application to client before filing with INZ / relied on recruitment company to review application with client / failed to obtain written authority from client to disclose personal information to recruiting company / assurance from third party that it has authority from client insufficient / failed to explain professional obligations and significant matters in agreement / failed to disclose conflict of interest / tripartite agreement with recruitment company created potential conflict which required disclosure and client’s written consent / adviser’s fees excessive / application was uncomplicated and did not warrant fee significantly beyond market range / ‘no win, no fee’ model lawful but did not justify steep elevation in fee / exploitive fee / complaint upheld / sanctions to follow”