Lawyers have condemned a move that saw a court fooled into prosecuting an undercover cop to boost his criminal standing.
Police are defending the move because of the dangerous nature of undercover work, but a leading barrister says it is “an abuse of process hitherto unknown” in the legal system.
Documents show the fake prosecution was signed off in 2010 by Chief District Court Judge Russell Johnson, who has since died. Read full article here.
“I would like to thank you Matt for everything over the last 3.5 years. It definitely was a long and hard process but I am very satisfied with his work. From the beginning my matter was full of emotions and lots of patience from Matt’s end and that showed for the duration of my case – it helped me know that I was in good hands and that he tried his best, right to the end. I do have some regrets from my end however, I accept my sentence and know that there was nothing else we could do so for that I am thankful. I wish Matt the best and hope to see him soon!”
ML
“I would like to thank you Matt for everything over the last 3.5 years. It definitely was a long and hard process but I am very satisfied with his work. From the beginning my matter was full of emotions and lots of patience from Matt’s end and that showed for the duration of my case – it helped me know that I was in good hands and that he tried his best, right to the end. I do have some regrets from my end however, I accept my sentence and know that there was nothing else we could do so for that I am thankful. I wish Matt the best and hope to see him soon!”
ML
“The professionalism Ciara consistently displayed while managing my case was matched only by her dedication to her work and the empathy she showed me throughout the entire process. Ciara truly went above and beyond to achieve the best possible outcome for me and I could not have asked for a better lawyer. I will be forever grateful for Ciara’s tirelessness and perseverance in what often felt like a losing battle. If you are seeking a professional with not only an exceptional legal skillset and a wealth of experience, but also someone who is understanding and caring of her clients, Ciara is the best possible person to engage. I could not recommend her higher. “
G, Auckland
BT was charged with driving with excess breath alcohol. BT was assisted by Ciara and pleaded guilty early in the proceedings and applied for a discharge without conviction.
The incident occurred after BT made the erroneous decision to drive after celebrating her university graduation with friends, going to bed and sleeping for a number of hours before waking up early in the morning to leave the address. When stopped by Police, BT returned an alcohol-breath reading of 662 mcgs.
At sentencing Ciara outlined for the judge how BT had a difficult past which she had overcome to obtain a degree as a healthcare professional. However, the impact of a conviction would stymie the progression of her career, which was only at an early stage and BT had completed various courses to make amends for her actions.
The application was successful and a discharge without conviction was granted.