Chemis Case.

Star (Christchurch), 30 September 1893, Page 4

Chemis Case.

TO THE EDITOR. Sib, — A great deal of nonsense is being talked and written about the conviot Chemiß. His case has been twice considered by the Executive, with the result that no action has been taken, oxcept the very merciful one of commuting the sentence of death. When Chemis was tried for murder I read the evidence, and : I failed to see what other verdict the Jury could have returned. I understand that. recently Sir Eobert Stout has expressed; the same opinion. The prisoner-may have been placed at a disadvantage owing to the illness of his counsel, but it is equally true that no great akill was shown by the authorities in preparing, the caße against Chemis. Bungling took place. lam not blaming anyone for that. Such things do happen. Fortunately our police force and doctors are not often called upon to deal with such cases, and they cannot be expeoted to bring to their investigations the skill; and experienoe of the crime-hunters of old countries. As to Chemis conviction, it is absurd to cay that many people believe him to be innocent. If there were any serious doubts in the case the jury would have been almo.t certain to have given him the benefit of them. It is a very rare thing for an innocent man to be found guilty, especially in these days when juries understand their rights and are not slow to act upon them. Aa to Chemis defence, it may have been a strong one. I express no opinion on that point. But there is a prinoiple involved Sn this matter. I knew Chemis counsel well. He was a genial and pleasant young lawyer. But criminal law was no specialty with him. No young general practitioner should alone undertake the defence of a person charged Vith murder. By doing so, his chances of adding to his reputation are as Bmall as thoßO of securing an acquittal for hia client. In cases of murder there should be both senior and junior counsel employed. If the health of one broke down then the other could go on with the defence. If a person on trial for his life cannot afford to pay counsel, the Government should provide moderate fees on his behalf. Such trials are rare with us, and the cost would not be much. There oould then be no excuse on the ground that tiie accused was not properly defended.— I am, &c, JUSTICE.