Ministry of Justice figures reveal Marong's legal aid bill for his trial and appeals is currently $189,571.97, with the cost of the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court actions yet to be finalised. "The victims of these people, they do not get legal aid, they do not get legal assistance," she said. McVicar said the millions spent on legal aid annually would be better spent elsewhere. However, noted Christchurch barrister Nigel Hampton QC, defended the provision of legal aid and the appeal process. "The criminal justice system allows applications to appeal as of right, and that is further enshrined in New Zealand's Bill of Rights.

Source: New Zealand Herald November 29, 2020 19:52 UTC