Lawyers face strict new rules
WELLINGTON: The Law Society is bringing in new rules for lawyers in the aftermath of the sexual assault and bullying allegations that have rocked the legal profession.
Earlier this year, the society announced it was setting up an independent working group to examine the processes for reporting and taking action on harassment and inappropriate behaviour.
The group was chaired by Dame Silvia Cartwright and its 130page report has found a range of problems with the current regime.
The Law Society said it was planning a number of changes following the review.
They are.—
New rules for lawyers that require high personal and professional standards with specific reference to sexual harassment, bullying, discrimination and other unacceptable behaviour.
A specific prohibition on victimis ation of people who report unacceptable behaviour in good faith.
The imposition of minimum obligations on legal workplaces or lawyers who are responsible for workplaces. This will include auditing and monitoring of compliance and a prevention of the use of nondisclosure agreements to contract out of or conceal unacceptable behaviour.
A more flexible twostage approach to confidentiality for complaints about sexual violence, bullying, sexual harassment, discrimination and related conduct.
Creation of a specialised process for dealing with complaints of unacceptable behaviour.
Changes to the procedures of the New Zealand Lawyers and Conveyancers Disciplinary Tribunal.
Investigation of mandatory training and education of lawyers to address culture problems in the legal profession.
New Zealand Law Society President Kathryn Beck said the working group prepared a comprehensive report.
‘‘Dame Silvia and the other four members have provided valuable information and insights into the issues involved.’’
Ms Beck said some of the recommendations were complex and farreaching, but would assist in making the legal community a safe place for all.
‘‘The Law Society will now develop a programme to determine how they can be put into effect.
‘‘Some of the recommendations are currently outside the mandate of the Law Society and require legislative change.’’
The Law Society would work in consultation with the Government, the profession and other organisations to achieve the appropriate outcome, she said. — RNZ