Make-over for NZ court system imminent

The judicature modernisation reforms – now awaiting third reading – represent the most significant revamp of the court system since enactment of the Judicature Act 1908.

We outline the key changes. Most provisions will commence in March 2017.

Key change in the committee stages

Section 3(2) of the Supreme Court Act 2003, underlining New Zealand's continuing commitment to the rule of law and the sovereignty of Parliament, has now been carried forward into the Bill.

The failure to include it in the first draft was controversial as it appeared to institute a substantial constitutional change in a Bill that was intended to be a procedural reform.

Other reforms

The Judicature Modernisation Bill has now been split into 15 Bills, which will be passed as separate Acts.