New Zealand criminal defence lawyers are being invited to test resources on a new website which has been designed to assist them and their clients with communication and effective trial preparation.

Trial Workbook is a joint initiative of Wellington barrister Nicolette Levy and her small business IT specialist sister Suzanne Levy.

Nicolette says she has developed a Trial Workbook for lawyers acting in serious or complicated matters, and a corresponding Client Workbook giving information and space for notes for clients.  

"For matters that are more serious than a straightforward guilty plea, but not expected to be complicated, there is a Lawyer Checklist and corresponding Client 'menu style' page with information about possible relevant matters," she says.  

Suzanne has prepared a website which collects together the many sources of information relevant to criminal lawyers, the ultimate aim being to reduce the clicks and typing taken to get to it. Nicolette has contributed commentary and case links on some topics, with more to come.

The pair are inviting practitioners to test the resources and website and to contact them with feedback.