The Justice Minister's push for faster dispute resolutions.
The Disputes Tribunal's jurisdiction is set to double from $30,000 to $60,000 after a landmark bill passed its first reading in Parliament. The move aims to improve court timeliness and access to justice for New Zealanders, reducing the need for lengthy and expensive legal battles.
Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith emphasized that the Disputes Tribunal offers a quick and inexpensive way for citizens to settle civil disputes without breaking the bank on lawyer fees. According to Ministry of Justice modelling, approximately 2,000 claims per year could benefit from this change, including new applicants and those who previously abandoned part of their claim due to jurisdiction limitations.
The Government has also agreed to amend the law, allowing Disputes Tribunal Referees to order respondents to pay back filing fees to successful applicants. This move aims to alleviate a common cost barrier for individuals seeking justice, particularly when an applicant is not seeking monetary compensation.
The goal of this legislation is to restore efficiency and fairness within New Zealand's justice system, ensuring victims can receive the resolution they deserve in a timely manner.