In a statement, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said the new law was expected to expand access to an extra 2000 people a year. Photo: RNZ / Mark Papalii
The government has passed a law doubling the threshold for civil cases to be taken to the disputes tribunal.
Civil cases are when one person or group sues another, rather than police prosecuting for an offence.
Instead of going to court and paying costly legal fees, cases can go to the Tribunal which charges $468 or less.
It is only for lower-level claims, however, with current rules allowing civil cases where the complainant is seeking up to $30,000; the bill passed today doubles that threshold to $60,000.
In a statement, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said this was expected to expand access to an extra 2000 people a year.
"The tribunal is a quick and inexpensive way for New Zealanders to settle civil disputes, without facing expensive legal fees. This comes at a time when low-cost dispute resolution is increasingly important for many," he said.
"Court delays affect everyone, the profession included. It just takes one thing to be out of place and everything grinds to a halt. Another adjournment. Justice delayed once more.
The bill passed with the support of all parties.
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