Lawyers Standards Committees consider conduct complaints and reports about lawyers and law firm employees and direct the associated investigation and independent decision making for appropriate disciplinary outcomes. Each Standards Committee includes at least one lay (non-lawyer) member to ensure that the public is represented in all decision making.

We are looking to appoint in a voluntary capacity, a lay member for Wellington Standards Committee 2. The Standards Committee considers complaints covering the full range of areas of legal practice.

You do not need to have any pre-existing expertise or knowledge of the law but must be of good character and possess the necessary skill, experience, and judgement to effectively contribute to the consideration of complaints. Experience in any similar role, or governance work, would be an advantage although not essential. Standards Committee members work collaboratively and are supported by dedicated staff in the Lawyers Complaints Service.

If successful, you will be expected to attend a monthly meeting. Meetings are usually held by Zoom with occasional in person meetings at our Wellington office. Lay members are expected to attend regular monthly meetings and undertake required reading and preparation in advance. This is a voluntary role, although there is a payment of $200 per meeting to all lay members. Any travel expenses are reimbursed for any in-person meeting attendance.

To be eligible for this role you must not at any time been admitted to the Roll of Barristers and Solicitors in New Zealand (or equivalent).

For further information or to view the position description contact Shalomi Yadavan by email at [email protected].