27 June 2016
The work of the Law Society can at times require speaking out on issues that affect lawyers in other countries. What is happening with the Malaysian Bar is one such example. The rule of law and promotion of a strong and independent legal profession and judiciary are fundamental to the administration of justice. It was therefore distressing to learn that the Malaysian Bar, which has been an outspoken defender of human rights and rule of law in the region, recently has been the subject of significant government attempts to silence the Malaysian legal profession. This includes a proposal that would see the Malaysian Bar effectively placed under government control. I note that UN Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers require governments to ensure that lawyers can perform all of their professional functions without intimidation, hindrance, harassment or improper interference.
On the occasion of the 6th World Congress against the Death Penalty, the Paris Bar has called for Bars and professional organisations of lawyers worldwide to sign a resolution opposing the death penalty, with special mention of the death penalty for terrorist acts. The resolution, to which the Law Society of NSW is now a signatory, notes that the definition of terrorism in the legislation of several states has been broadened, increasing the risk of the death penalty being applied in an arbitrary and discriminatory nature.
A recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between the Law Society of NSW and the Shenzhen Lawyers Association in China establishes a mutually beneficial agreement for the promotion of legal business communication and cooperation between the two organisations. Globalisation of the legal services market provides opportunities for closer links between legal organisations, particularly with our close neighbours in the Asia–Pacific Region. Memoranda of understanding provide a useful basis for closer cooperation between legal professional organisations in the region and help to encourage better understanding of the laws and legal systems of our close neighbours.
With the end of the financial year only a few days away, I would like remind you about Ovarian Cancer Australia, the charity I have chosen to support this year. If every solicitor in the State donated $5, we would raise almost $150,000 for this most worthwhile cause. Please also note that every donation over $2 made before 1 July is tax deductable.