Applications close on 6 March
The Ministry of Justice is currently seeking commissioners for the soon-to-launch Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC).
The commission, which will commence operations on 1 July, will have chief and deputy chief commissioners, as well as at least one but not more than five commissioners.
The independent Crown entity provides an “important safety valve” to the country’s criminal justice system, Justice Minister Andrew Little said when the bill passed its third reading in November and was awaiting royal assent.
Both the New Zealand Law Society and the New Zealand Bar Association have expressed their support for the commission, which will independently investigate possible miscarriages of justice in criminal cases, with appropriate cases to be referred back to the appeal courts. The function will replace the current mechanism overseen by the governor-general.
The CCRC’s goal is to improve the criminal justice system and enhance the independence, timeliness, quality, and fairness of investigations into suspected miscarriages of justice. In addition to its independent investigations, the commission will also promote the review process, as well as conduct thematic reviews.
At least one commissioner must have knowledge and understanding of te Ao Māori and tikanga Māori.
At least a third of commissioners must be legally qualified. The ministry is looking for people who have held practicing certificates as a barrister or as a barrister and solicitor for at least seven years; or has been admitted as a barrister, solicitor, barrister and solicitor, advocate, or attorney by a senior court in another country and has practised as such in that country for at least seven years.
At least two-thirds of commissioners must have experience in working in the criminal justice system or have other knowledge or expertise relevant to the commission’s functions and duties, which may include those gained overseas.
Candidates with a broad experience in governance, a high level of strategic decision making, experience with statutory review or adversarial processes, and understanding of Crown entity requirements are preferred by the ministry.
Applications close at 4:30pm on 6 March.
