Chapman Tripp Commerorates Homosexual Law Reform

Chapman Tripp Commerorates Homosexual Law Reform

2 August 2016

Leading law firm Chapman Tripp is teaming up with Rainbow Law to commemorate the 30 year anniversary of the Homosexual Law Reform Act.

Justice Matthew Muir - the first openly gay High Court judge - is speaking at the networking evening next Monday, 8 August, at Chapman Tripp’s Auckland offices.

“This is the first event of its kind organised by Chapman Tripp and we are extending the invite to other Auckland law firms and law students,” said Chapman Tripp’s Chief Executive Partner Nick Wells.

“The Homosexual Law Reform Act is a landmark piece of legislation and it is important to commemorate such a significant and positive milestone.”

Diversity and belonging is a key objective of Chapman Tripp’s 2016-2020 Strategic Plan, Wells said.

“The heart of our culture is Manaakitanga, the concept of nurturing and showing respect for each other. Diversity is about that same respect, generosity and care - as we continuously work to be inclusive and extend that to all aspects of difference.

“We have engaged Diversitas, a well-respected diversity consultancy, to conduct an in-depth review - including interviews with our clients, employees and alumni - demonstrating our commitment to our overall diversity strategy.”

Justice Muir, formerly a Queen's Counsel in Auckland, was appointed to the High Court Bench in December 2014. His partner of 31 years - James Peters - was one of the members of the Gay Taskforce that worked closely with the Hon Fran Wilde to achieve homosexual law reform 30 years ago.

Rainbow Law is a student-led organisation for the LGBT+ community at Auckland Law School. The organisation offers support to those questioning their sexual and/or gender identity as well as linking students to the wider LGBT+ legal professional community.

“We appreciate the warm response we have had from legal community, and look forward to students making connections with future colleagues and allies,” said Rekha Patel and Matthew Denton of Rainbow Law.

Nick Wells, Justice Muir, Rekha Patel and Matthew Denton of Rainbow Law are available for comment.

ENDS

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