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    Sports Law: Contracts and Rules for Teams and Events.

    Contracts, rules and structures that keep sport running smoothly

    From setting team rules to managing national events, we help sports organisations put the right legal foundations in place. We advise across contracts, governance, disputes and compliance.

    Why Sports Law Matters

    Whether you run a national body, regional organisation, or local club, sport depends on fairness, structure, and trust. Sports law helps protect those values so your organisation can operate smoothly and confidently.

    We understand how much sport matters. It brings people together, builds communities, and defines culture. Our role is to make sure the legal side supports that purpose through clear rules, strong governance, and fair outcomes that protect everyone involved.

    We work with sporting organisations of all sizes across New Zealand, from professional teams and national bodies to local clubs and event organisers. Our advice helps leaders make sound decisions that reflect the integrity of their sport.

     

    Common Areas We Advise On

    We support sporting organisations and events with legal guidance across a wide range of areas, including:

    • Player, coach, and management agreements
    • Codes of conduct and disciplinary procedures
    • Event and venue contracts
    • Sponsorship and media rights
    • Selection and eligibility disputes
    • Constitutions, policies, and governance reviews
    • Compliance with national and international sporting frameworks
    Our focus is to help you manage risk and responsibility so you can stay focused on performance and participation.

     

    Structuring and Compliance

    Strong governance builds strong sport. We assist with the setup and management of clubs, associations, and national bodies, including

    • Incorporating societies, trusts, or companies

    • Reviewing and updating constitutions and internal policies

    • Advising on compliance and best practice

    • Supporting boards and committees with decision making and dispute management

    Our advice is practical, balanced, and based on real experience in the sporting sector.

     

    Ongoing Support

    Sport never stands still. We help organisations stay ahead by providing ongoing legal support on governance, integrity, and compliance. Our role is to protect your reputation, strengthen your structure, and ensure you stay ready for whatever comes next.

     

    Where We Work

    Our sports law specialists are based in Wellington and Christchurch and work with clients across New Zealand. We understand the demands of managing sporting organisations and provide clear, reliable legal guidance at every level.

     

    Questions We Often Get Asked About Sports Law

    What does a sports lawyer do?

    A sports lawyer helps organisations manage legal matters such as governance, contracts, disputes, and compliance. The aim is to keep sport fair, transparent, and well managed.

    Who needs sports law advice?

    Local clubs, regional and national sporting bodies, professional teams, and event organisers all benefit from legal advice. Even community-level organisations face legal and reputational risks that need careful management.

    Can you help with disciplinary or selection disputes?

    Yes. We advise on fair process, documentation, and resolution to help organisations make confident and transparent decisions.

    Do you assist with sponsorship and media agreements?

    Yes. We review and prepare contracts for sponsorship, broadcasting, and marketing to protect your organisation’s interests.

    Do I need a lawyer to review our constitution or policies?

    Yes. Regular reviews keep your documents compliant with current law and sporting frameworks. Legal advice ensures your policies are practical, enforceable, and aligned with your goals.

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    Let's talk.
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