Russell McVeagh ex-partner admits unsatisfactory conduct for bulk of charges Newsroom 4 hrs ago
Graphic warning: Details in the copy might be distressing for a few readers.
Significant concessions come from a former law firm partner over allegations against him, as both sides make their closing statements in a disciplinary case with potentially far-reaching consequences.
A former Russell McVeagh partner accused of groping summer clerks has admitted to unsatisfactory conduct regarding the majority of charges against him, following a hearing which could set a standard for sexual behaviour in the legal profession.
However, the man has retained his interim name suppression for the time being, due to concerns about the wellbeing of his partner.
“Yes, I don’t accept it’s a conditional apology in the way you’ve said it. “I accept entirely that it was their perception that it was sexual, but I do not accept that was my intention.” He “rejected entirely” that there was a misogynistic attitude or culture or that there were constant sexual references involving himself and members of his team at leading law firm Russell McVeagh. The man’s name was suppressed at the Lawyers and Conveyancers Disciplinary Tribunal, where he faces seven charges at a public hearing in Wellington this week.
Robert Kitchin/Stuff
Russell McVeagh is a leading law firm with offices in a Wellington tower block. (File photo)
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