A civil jury trial to hear claims brought by Tonga's former Attorney General, John Cauchi, against the government is underway in the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court.
Matangi Tonga reports Mr Cauchi, who is Australian, is claiming breach of contract, repudiation of contract and constructive dismissal.
He became Tonga's first independent attorney general in May 2009 for a 3 year term but he resigned less than a year later.
Mr Cauchi says he was wrongly treated and wants the government to pay damages in excess of half a million US dollars.
