18 Dec 2018

Dame Silvia Cartwright: new rules needed for legal profession

From Nine To Noon, 9:29 am on 18 December 2018
Dame Silvia Cartwright

Dame Silvia Cartwright Photo: RNZ/Dru Faulkner

New rules are needed in the legal profession to address unacceptable behavior, according to a Law Society working group chaired by Dame Silvia Cartwright.

The report finds professional codes aren't effective for dealing with complaints about sexual violence, harassment, discrimination and bullying. It said the lack of equality and diversity in the legal profession allows for unacceptable behaviour to flourish.

The report also points to a lack of confidence that the Law Society will act against perpetrators, and that conduct and reporting standards are unclear. Kathryn talks with Dame Silvia about the issues in the profession.