At a breakfast in Christchurch, Paul Goldsmith said justice was his busiest portfolio
Justice minister Paul Goldsmith recognised the New Zealand Law Society for its contributions to law reform at a breakfast in Christchurch with the legal profession.
Goldsmith said there had been much legislative reform that was rapidly executed under tight turnarounds. He thanked the Law Society for making submissions and highlighted the volunteer lawyers involved.
The minister explained that the practical feedback from lawyers on the ground was useful as examples of day-to-day issues faced by practitioners. Goldsmith said he intended to prioritise reducing the number of violent crime victims, enhancing rehabilitation resources especially for those on remand, and addressing mental health. He noted the importance of tackling the underlying issues that result in criminal activity.
He also sought to limit court delays, highlighting the need for timely access to justice, and called for cooperation across all aspects of the justice system. He pointed to the recent reduction in court backlogs and spotlighted assistive technology in this area, including the Te Au Reka case management system set to debut in Family Court next year.
Goldsmith discussed the fiscal landscape and set expectations that the upcoming budget would be tight in light of interest in the Legal Aid Review. The minister, who in addition to justice holds the arts, culture and heritage, media and communications, and Treaty of Waitangi negotiations portfolios, said justice was his busiest portfolio.
