BAR'S TRIBUTE TO JUDGE

Press, Volume LXXXIV, Issue 25679, 16 December 1948, Page 8

BAR'S TRIBUTE TO JUDGE

MR JUSTICE FLEMING’S TERM ENDS

Mr Justice Fleming yesterday concluded his duties as temporary judge of the Supreme Court in Christchurch. There was a large attendance of barristers to support tributes paid by Mr L. J. Hensley, president of the Canterbury District Law Society. His Honour had come to Christchurch two years ago as a stranger; but now parted from the Court as a friend. Mr Hensley said. His sincere kindness and courtesy had charmed everyone, his patience and anxiety io do justice had been noteworthy, and his industry had conquered the many difficult task with which he was con-

fronted. Apart from busy Court sessions. his Honour had carried out with expedition the considerable and important work in chambers. Younger counsel had profited by experience under so considerate a judge. Mr Hensley also praised the efficient work of Miss K. M. Henry, judge’s associate. Mr Justice Fleming said his period in Christchurch had been a busy one, but. with the co-operation of all associated with the Court, he hoped the business had been dispatched as promptly as possible and with satisfactory results. Arrears of work had accumulated at the outset through the circumstances requiring the appointment of a temporary judge and the matters before the court had required remedies ordinary and extraordinary. Counsel had prepared their cases with industry, and stated them well and without undue prolixity. The registrar (Mr W Parker), the deputyregistrar (Mr J. R. Sansom), the courcrier (Mr E. J. Keay) and the staff had given all assistance. He had been impressed with the efficiency of the police. particularly the detective branch. A great deal of the credit for prompt conclusion of proceedings was due to his associate (Miss Henry) for her outstanding work. In recording evidence, he had never heard her request that counsel or witnesses speak more slowly.

His Honour reciprocated seasonal greetings from the bar and thanked all associated with the Court in Christchurch and in other centres for a pleasant sojourn in the South Island.