Lawyers around New Zealand are reminded that there are members of the legal profession in the Wellington region who are still experiencing work access and other logistical problems because of Monday morning’s force 7.8 earthquake, New Zealand Law Society President Kathryn Beck says.

“While the focus is obviously on Kaikoura and the surrounding area, there are still buildings and workplaces around Wellington which are affected,” she says.

“A number of government buildings are closed or have restricted access, as well as problems in commercial buildings which affect lifts or the ability to work. Many of the Wellington courts were closed, there are legal aid payment problems, and the Law Society’s Wellington Library is still closed. It is very important also to recognise that everyone in the Wellington area has also come through a large earthquake and aftershocks can still be felt.

“I would ask everyone who may be in contact with lawyers in Wellington – whether they are in-house, barristers, in sole practice or in a firm – to appreciate that they may not be able to respond to requests as quickly as before. It is in times like this that the collegial and caring aspect of the legal profession should shine.”

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