Just thinking back to a case I was involved in back in the early 2000s (you can read a little more about it here).
The case was significant for legal history because I was Louise’s McKenzie Friend support person. My role here paved the way for victims in sexual violence cases to be supported in court by close confidants.
It also led to a Commission of Inquiry into Police Conduct and a lot of changes were made to our criminal and policing system. A book and a film were made about Louise. Also she was New Zealander of the year 2007.
Louise gave me the idea for my Vinay Deobhakta McKenzie friend Watchdog concept .
Many clients ask me to keep their injustices, grievances, cases and outcomes confidential to protect their families but Louise wanted to expose the Police corruption and took the brave step of being publicly scrutinised and won!
Currently I have 2 cases where I am a McKenzie Friend Watchdog for the victims in Sexual Assault proceedings.
Because of Louise I tend to be asked to support more victims in the McKenzie Friend Watchdog role.