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Siemer wins reduction in sentence for contempt
By Steven | May 18, 2010
Vince Siemer has reshaped the law of contempt in New Zealand. The Supreme Court has ruled 3-2 that the Bill of Rights right to a jury trial applies to those charged with contempt, since they face potential jail terms of more than 3 months. But since it’s unfeasible to give all contempt respondents jury trials, the maximum penalty for contempt of court is now 3 months. That’s on a par with seeking donations by false pretence or disorderly assembly.
So Vince is still off to jail, but for three months, not six.
Topics: Contempt of Court, General, NZ Bill of Rights Act | Comments Off on Siemer wins reduction in sentence for contempt