November 14, 2022
Judges challenged to fix bias in system
Waipareira chief executive and former lawyer John Tamihere says lawyers need to do a better job advocating for their clients.
Mr Tamihere and other leaders had a hui today at Hoani Waititi Marae with judges from the western circuit.
They wanted to flag their concern about lawyers’ performance at both bar and bench.
While there are issues with funding for defence lawyers, it’s the judges who have the power in the courtroom
“If you want a proper justice system, we need to judiciary to stand up. Don’t blame the fact Maoris are underfunded, they’ve got poor lawyers. You’re part of the judicial system and it’s your job to make it work better,” Mr Tamihere says.