A criminal defence barrister suspended from working as a legal aid lawyer has been paid more than $2.5 million from the public purse.

MPs today passed a law that by 2011 will allow police to take DNA samples from anyone they intend charging with an imprisonable offence.

The justice system could be tilted to make it easier to convict sex offenders if the Govt adopts proposals in a taskforce report.

A national sexual violence prevention plan should be created, the sexual violence taskforce says.

Alan Gundry says he was just protecting his family and never wanted his mate Gene Atkins to die.

All convicted offenders will have to pay a $50 levy under a law passed by Parliament today.

David Tua is understood to have reached an agreement with his former managers, settling a long-running court battle.

Justice Minister Simon Power's speech announcing changes in Government support for the victims of serious crime.

Victims of serious crime will now get more financial support - including a payment for attending the court hearing of the accused.

The Crown Law Office reviewing internet publication, after recent cases raised questions over contempt of court and suppression order breaches.

Maori Party co-leaders Pita Sharples and Tariana Turia wrote submissions to the High Court in support of disgraced former MP Taito Phillip Field.

Court 15 in the High Court at Auckland was an inadequate venue for the audience of about 100 supporters of disgraced ex-MP Taito Phillip Field.