DEATH IN COURT

Auckland Star, Volume LXXV, Issue 296, 14 December 1944, Page 3

DEATH IN COURT

WELL KNOWN BARRISTER MR. J. J. SULLIVAN'S COLLAPSE When engaged in a case in the Supreme Court late yesterday afternoon, Mr. Jeremiah James Sullivan, one of Auckland's best-known barristers, collapsed and died. A witness who hacT been questioned by Mr. Sullivan had left the witness box, and Mr. Sullivan had just sat down, when he collapsed ■ over the table. Medical aid was summoned, but Mr. Sullivan was dead. Mr. Sullivan was •'born in County Cork, Ireland, and studied law there before coming to New Zealand about 40 years ago. He continued his studies at Victoria University College, Wellington, where he was a gold medallist in oratory. For nine years he was in the Civil Service, being engaged in legal matters for the Defence Department and, for a I period, as a solicitor in the Public Trust Department.

In 1918 Mr. Sullivan commenced private practice in Auckland and soon established himself by his work in criminal cases and as a counsel in connection with arbitration and conciliation matters. He was engaged in many notable cases, one during the previous war being in connection with the conscription of

Maoris for war service. At the time of his death he was in partnership with Mr. W. R. Teape. Mr. Sullivan was passionately devoted to the study of Irish affairs and was deeply read in Irish history, having a genuine love for the outstanding characters of his own country. He was a profound lover of Thomas Moore and his works and made a special study of 'them. He was also a student of historical Maori matters. Mr. Sullivan was a member of the Labour party, and was legal adviser to many trades unions. From 1938 to 1941 he was a member of the Auckland City Council. At one time he represented the Newton club on the Auckland Rugby League. He is survived by his wife and one son.