The accused gunman at an appearance in Christchurch District Court. Photo: NZMEKiwi taxpayers are footing the bill for the two lawyers now acting for the accused Christchurch gunman. "Legal aid is an important part of New Zealand's justice system – no one should be denied justice because they cannot afford a lawyer." However, Tait's chambers refused to discuss with the Herald whether the two lawyers were acting on legal aid. After the alleged gunman's first appearance in the District Court, duty lawyer Richard Peters told the Herald the accused "seemed quite clear and lucid".

Source: Otago Daily Times April 05, 2019 03:22 UTC