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Access to Justice Award
The 2023 LexisNexis / New Zealand Bar Association | Ngā Ahorangi Motuhake o te ture Access to Justice Award was awarded to Dr Bridgette Toy-Cronin at the Bar Association’s formal Conference Dinner in Christchurch.
This Award was born out of discussions with community stakeholders and those whose practices included significant legal aid, pro bono, low bono and alternative fee-charging components. Many felt they were not recognised for the vital work that they undertook. We wanted to thank them and clarify that the independent bar appreciated their contributions. LexisNexis representative Matt Pedersen noted his company’s commitment to the rule of law and the vital part that access to justice plays. In the UK, the company already sponsored an Access to Justice Award.
Dr Simon Foote KC outlined Dr Toy-Cronin’s work in Access to Justice. Over the years, her work has informed the judiciary, the legal profession, and the government of the crisis we face in accessing our courts and dispute resolution mechanisms. Most importantly, her empirical mahi has proved decisive in raising the consciousness of the government and the profession to the seriousness of the situation. Dr Toy-Cronin is a leader in this area domestically and has highlighted the issue internationally. As a result of her work, there has been a move towards evidence-based reform and drawing disparate threads and organisations into a cohesive approach to the problem. This year is the second year of the Award but the first year we have called for nominations. The judges were highly impressed by the nominees and their work in a crucial area of the legal system. The standard was so high that the judging Panel decided that there would be a special commendation for Wellington barrister John Goddard in addition to the winner. The judges noted the breadth of his work and his commitment to representing those who otherwise would not have a voice before our courts. The range of areas in which he represents clients – from ACC to tenancy – shows the extent of his endeavours in providing access to justice. In the Panel’s view, Mr Goddard’s nomination presents the human face of access to justice.
The Bar Association is honoured to be able to present this Award. Those working to ensure access to justice are demonstrating their commitment to the rule of law, and we thank them for their mahi.
