Lawyers urged to join climate-change group

Lawyers can join the newly formed Lawyers For Climate Action NZ by signing up online

Lawyers urged to join climate-change group

Lawyers For Climate Action NZ is urging lawyers to join, according to the New Zealand Law Society.

The newly formed group is open to holders of law degrees and does not require a practising certificate. The annual membership fee is $50, which is used for administration costs. The group, which held its first annual general meeting in June, can be joined via its website.

According to the Law Society, Lawyers For Climate Action NZ is a group of lawyers that aims to raise public awareness and understanding of the threat of climate change.

It also advocates for legislation and policies to ensure that New Zealand meets or exceeds commitments under the Paris Agreement, as well as achieves net-zero carbon emissions as soon as possible.

The group also facilitates free or reduced-cost legal assistance to community groups focused on facing the challenge of climate change. However, members are not obligated to accept pro bono work. The Law Society also said that both active and non-active members are welcome.