Lawyers stand ready to aid peers affected by Christchurch fires

On Thursday, the fires had already razed more than 2,000 hectares

Lawyers stand ready to aid peers affected by Christchurch fires
Lawyers across New Zealand are coming together to extend a helping hand to colleagues who have been affected by the massive Christchurch fires.

Christine Grice, New Zealand Law Society executive director, said in a statement on the organisation’s site that lawyers across the country understand the burden brought about by having to cope with the natural disaster.

On Thursday, the fires had already razed 2,075 hectares, with a perimeter of about 30 kilometres, a Stuff report said. Experts say these are among the largest fires in the country’s recent history.

“The nature of legal practice means that lawyers are frequently in communication with others around the country in a wide variety of transactions. The Law Society is sure that those from other centres who are dealing with Christchurch lawyers will recognise the pressure that they will be under,” Grice said. “Lawyers have a clear duty to ensure the interests of their clients are always foremost, but it has been heartening in the past to see the way in which members of the profession are sensitive to the pressures imposed by events such as fires or earthquakes.

“The profession was quick to offer assistance and support during and in the aftermath of the Christchurch earthquakes, and I am sure this will be the case now.”

New Zealand Law Society Canterbury-Westland branch staff are ready to support Christchurch lawyers who may need assistance, Grice said. The branch can be reached via (03) 366 9184 or [email protected].


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