Guidelines for candidates have also been updated for this year
Attorney-General David Parker has announced that there will be an appointment round for Queen’s Counsel this year.
Appointments of Queen’s Counsel are made by the governor-general on the recommendation of the attorney-general and with the agreement of the chief justice. Both Parker and Chief Justice Helen Winkelmann have issued updated guidelines for candidates this year after consulting with the New Zealand Law Society and the New Zealand Bar Association.
In a statement, Parker said that the guidelines now include a new criterion: a commitment to improving access to justice.
“In recommending barristers to take silk, I want to have a good understanding of each applicant’s personal contribution to improving access to justice for those who need it,” said Parker. “It will be an important factor in my decisions.”
Parker also said that he expects fewer successful applicants than in recent years.
“There are over 100 practicing QCs,” he said. “I want to make sure we reserve the rank for those who are at the very top of their game, not just in the quality of their legal work but also in their relationships with others, and in their contribution to the profession. I also want to ensure the rank in New Zealand represents the diversity of our profession, both regionally and in their practice areas.”
Applications are now open and must be sent to Solicitor‑General Una Jagose no later than 30 August.
