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New Zealand slips to 7th in global rule of law rankings

New Zealand has dropped two places in the latest global rule of law rankings, with declines in government transparency, fundamental rights and criminal justice contributing to the slide.

Supreme Court declines Gautam Jindal’s application for leave to appeal

The Supreme Court has declined Gautam Jindal’s application for leave to appeal the High Court’s decision upholding the liability and penalty decisions of the New Zealand Lawyers and Conveyancers Disciplinary Tribunal (Tribunal). Mr Jindal’s six-month suspension will come into effect at 6pm on 30 October 2026.

Our Profession, Our Future

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy 2027-2032 The legal profession in Aotearoa New Zealand is connected by a shared commitment to justice, integrity and service to the communities it serves. We have launched Our Profession, Our Future, a five-year diversity, equity and inclusion strategy that sets out a shared vision for a…

Twelve new King’s Counsel appointed for 2026

The New Zealand Law Society Te Kāhui Ture o Aotearoa congratulates the 12 barristers appointed King’s Counsel for 2026.

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New Zealand slips to 7th in global rule of law rankings

New Zealand has dropped two places in the latest global rule of law rankings, with declines in government transparency, fundamental rights and criminal justice contributing to the slide.

Supreme Court declines Gautam Jindal’s application for leave to appeal

The Supreme Court has declined Gautam Jindal’s application for leave to appeal the High Court’s decision upholding the liability and penalty decisions of the New Zealand Lawyers and Conveyancers Disciplinary Tribunal (Tribunal). Mr Jindal’s six-month suspension will come into effect at 6pm on 30 October 2026.

Law Society statements See all

A recent District Court decision convicting a non-lawyer for regulatory offences has reinforced the important consumer protection purposes of the Lawyers and Conveyancers Act 2006, New Zealand Law Society chief executive Katie Rusbatch says.

James Gardner-Hopkins’ application for a practising certificate has been approved by a New Zealand Law Society Te Kāhui Ture o Aotearoa Practice Approval Committee (the Committee) following the end of his suspension for misconduct. The application was carefully considered and decided by a majority of the Committee. Mr Gardner-Hopkins is…