Maria Dew QC's efforts to reinvigorate the attractions - if that is the word - of legal aid is designed to help reverse the dramatic decline of legal aid suppliers, driven by remuneration and compliance problems. Writing in the Law Society's weekly bulletin, Ms Dew referred to the death of her own civil legal aid practice in 2002 when she resigned due to frustration over … [Read more...]
Senior QC Announced As Head of Chief of Criminal Cases Review Commission announced To Head Criminal Cases Review Commission
Wellington Colin Carruthers QC has been appointed Chief Commissioner of the Criminal Cases Review Commission for an 18-month term, effective from 1 February 2020. The Commission will be based in Hamilton, with Justice Minister Andrew Little saying it is important that the CCRC is independent from the big bureaucratic and judicial centres, Auckland and … [Read more...]
“Extraordinary growth” See Meredith Connell Move
Meredith Connell have well and truly overcome the tough times when the Auckland Crown warrant was split in two, quoting "extraordinary growth" that has seen the firm's 240 staff moving to new premises next year. The NZ Herald quoted Meredith Connell Chief Executive Kylie Mooney saying the growth over the past four years has been such that the current premises at the BDO … [Read more...]
The Grace Millane Killing and The Rise of the ‘Grey Shades’ Defence To Rough Sex Murder
Victoria Thomas - The New Zealand murder of British tourist Grace Millane, whose unnamed killer was this week sentenced to life imprisonment with a 17 years non-parole condition, has highlighted a significant rise in the so-called 'Grey Shades' defence of sexual consent in 'rough sex' cases internationally. The Millane case has also showcased, if that is the word, a defence … [Read more...]
Why Are These Lawyers Choosing to Earn Less? Linklaters Lawyers Sign On For Reduced Salary
More Linklater lawyers are signing on to earn less money in a scheme permitting German non-partners to work 40 hour work weeks for reduced earnings. The number of Linklaters lawyers who have signed on to the firm's fixed-hours and reduced-rate pay career has doubled in less than three years, reports show. Linklaters have taken an increasingly proactive approach towards … [Read more...]