New Zealand Law Society - LawTalk Issue 965

LawTalk Issue 965

LawTalk Issue 965

This winter issue of LawTalk focuses on Meaningful careers, Meaningful mahi. It includes articles on the 40th anniversary of the Homosexual Law Reform, navigating commercial pressures and professional duty, and the growing role of pro bono. We share the experiences of lawyers, flexible ways of working, a new wānanga on tikanga, and more.

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Making a tangible difference

Making a tangible difference

Law Society President David Campbell highlights the enduring responsibility of lawyers to make a difference in people’s lives, uphold the rule of law and contribute to the strength of the institutions underpinning our democracy.   
Homosexual Law Reform 40 years on

Homosexual Law Reform 40 years on

It’s difficult to believe that not too long ago, it was illegal for gay men to be what was described as “actively homosexual.” 
The early career lawyers behind the Women’s Law Journal

The early career lawyers behind the Women’s Law Journal

Between full-time legal work and study, three lawyers are giving back through the New Zealand Women’s Law Journal. LawTalk asked them why they have taken volunteer roles with the Journal on top busy full-time jobs and study. 
64 years and counting

64 years and counting

Nigel Hampton KC reflects with LawTalk on a legal career defined by purpose, public service, and a willingness to stand firm in the pursuit of justice.  
Law, labour and dialogue

Law, labour and dialogue

Wellingtonian Lisa Tortell reflects on her path to the International Labour Organisation, the enduring value of social justice, and why practical, people-centred lawyering still matters on the international stage. 

Beyond the billable hour

How lawyers of Aotearoa are building a stronger culture of pro bono and expanding access to justice in the process. 

Lawyers as agents of the rule of law

When commercial pressure collides with professional duty, how does a lawyer hold the line?  

There's more than one way to be a lawyer

How flexible working is helping lawyers build sustainable careers. 

New resources to help close the gender pay gap

For law firms serious about fairness, new tools are making it easier to measure and close the gender pay gap. 

AML/CFT in the spotlight

What lawyers need to know about their responsibilities. 

Law reform and advocacy update

Read about the Law Society’s 30 submissions and advocacy and engagement work from March to June 2026. 

High Court civil work

The Honourable Justice Sally Fitzgerald provides an update on the new Rules, the re-established commercial list and trial readiness. 

Tikanga and the law: building capability in practice

A new day-long wānanga, developed by Te Hunga Rōia Māori o Aotearoa and the Law Society, aims to provide practising lawyers with a foundational understanding of tikanga and its intersection with the law. 

Tackling wellbeing in the legal profession

Former All Black and Mental Health advocate Sir John Kirwan (JK) and health psychology specialist and former litigator Dr Fiona Crichton offered a blend of lived experience, neuroscience, and practical tools for protecting wellbeing at a free Law Society webinar in May. 

Book review: Tracing the contours of refugee protection

Barrister Sharelle Aitchison reviews a new book that explores the landmark decisions that have shaped international refugee law.