TV law, nothing like the real thing. Court protocol in New Zealand is far from what is portrayed in films and drama’s. It is an elegant process, full of nuances and customs. At its heart though the fate of those charged, suing or being sued, is played out. The New Zealand system of appointing judges is far from perfect but … Read More
The quiet revolution is under way
The quiet revolution is under way, namely our elections. Typically, orderly, non-violent and conducted with integrity our three yearly cycle is something to celebrate. Yet the actions of the Serious Fraud Office of late deserve closer inspection. Its vast resources are being applied in an attempt to issue a press release that will likely have political impact. At the same … Read More
Made redundant?
The Covid epidemic has turned life upside down for many people. Those who have lost jobs and looking for a self-employment opportunity need to tread carefully. Franchise businesses are a form of self-employment but careful due diligence must be undertaken by anyone considering this type of investment. The “food” industry has many franchises but the entry level can be expensive … Read More
A grossly underrated personal value is “Integrity”
Not only does it form an essential part of our assessment of others the same factor has a critical impact when it is missing in our institutions and community processes. A current example is the election process. With the many varied and sometimes bizarre systems seen world-wide. We are lucky in that NZ has a system that rates high in … Read More
A tip on choosing a lawyer
You don’t want someone like Donald Trumps with a persona lacking any empathy. He has no understanding of the word if his speeches and actions are any indication. Pity as that is an important factor in any relationship but specially where there is a power imbalance. When looking for a lawyer empathy is one of the key factors. Reliability and … Read More
A challenge
A challenge is underway to the Covid-19 lock down strategy. The Plaintiffs are claiming it was illegal. That raises a dilemma for the government. Clearly the action taken had the support of the community and seems to have had the desired effect. There remains the possibility that another lock down, either national or regional, may be needed. If the Court … Read More
NZ Election season is upon us
The critical factor in NZ is one person one vote and confidentiality. Contrast that with the USA that uses an antiquated 18th century electoral system, complicated enrollment requirements and voting procedures. The NZ system means all votes count and are counted. While not perfect, the perfect system is yet to be invented, the NZ elections are far more equitable and … Read More
Artificial Intelligence in Law
Artificial Intelligence, it’s here and being applied to law. Unfortunately for lawyers, who love time costing, with the introduction of AI, time will largely become irrelevant. The consumer will be looking at law like a commodity and looking for factors that truly differentiate the “good lawyer” from the “bad lawyer”. Bit like buying another commodity, eggs. Who doesn’t open the … Read More
Possibilities
Certainty is a scarce commodity in the new world we live in. Not just locally but globally. From a relatively stable community everything has been knocked off balance and what was a given pre-Covid 19 is now not so. In these times knowing your options is critical. Getting direction from experienced people on what options are viable, to be avoided … Read More
Renting your home office to the boss?
Why not? Working from home does make life safer in the current pandemic. Does it also mean lower costs for your employer? As an in-house employee the infrastructure to do your work is provided by your employer. Things like a desk, internet connection, bathroom facilities, air conditioning, security and so on. An argument exists for the employee to be given … Read More