Law Society opposes ex-judge's bid to practise

The Otago branch of the New Zealand Law Society is opposing former district court judge Michael Guest's bid to practise law again.

Dunedin city councillor Mr Guest was struck off by the New Zealand Law Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal in 2001 for lying to a client.

The council of the society's Otago branch has recommended that the national board oppose Mr Guest's application for restoration to the roll of barristers and solicitors, the Otago Daily Times reports.

"The council is not satisfied that Mr Guest is a fit and proper person to be restored to the roll...," it states in the branch's May newsletter.

Mr Guest said yesterday it was "incredible" he had to learn of the council's recommendation from the media.

"Well, it's sub judice, but I'm extremely disappointed. It makes it very difficult for me and I'm frankly really disappointed I learn that from the media and not from the law society itself."

A date for a hearing has not yet been set.

- NZPA