He began helming the organisation yesterday
Dr Simon Foote KC has commenced his term as the new president of the New Zealand Bar Association | Ngā Ahorangi Motuhake o te Ture (NZBA).
He stepped into the leadership role yesterday 1 October. Foote takes over for Paul David KC.
Foote joined the independent bar 24 years ago. The Bankside Chambers practitioner has tackled commercial and civil litigation, arbitration, public law and criminal jury trials; his PhD research examined the jurisdictional aspects of investment treaty arbitration.
He co-authored the NZBA’s 2018 report on access to justice. Moreover, he launched the Access to Justice Award .
Foote explained that he was taking up the mantle of president during “dynamic times for the independent bar”. His priority will be the members of the independent bar and their role in the justice system.
The growth and diversification of the bar, he said, has expanded its influence but also added to the NZBA’s responsibilities.
“Our role in the justice system is ever more important and the association's obligations to its members and its opportunities to promote its objectives have likewise increased considerably”, Foote said in a media release. “I am excited to lead the association in supporting its members through education, professional growth, practice development and wellbeing, while continuing our work to promote and protect the rule of law and improve access to justice”.
In particular, he expressed his eagerness to collaborate with barristers “to better understand their challenges, support their work, and strengthen their connection with the association” throughout his two-year term.
Foote’s predecessor David will stay on as immediate past president to facilitate a smooth transition and provide guidance. He noted that there remained much work to be done in clarifying barristers’ roles and their role in “providing a civilised form of dispute resolution in the courts and tribunals of New Zealand”.
“More generally, we must continue to demonstrate the independence and fairness that are essential to our justice system”, David said. “I strongly believe in the role of the independent bar in supporting the effective functioning of our system of justice”.
David, who works with Eldon Chambers, added that he had enjoyed his time as president.
“I have enjoyed my time serving as president. I am pleased that I put myself forward for election. The role is challenging, but I have found it very satisfying”, he said.
