Lawyers offer services to SPCA

A formidable force of the most senior members of Auckland's legal profession is set to help the SPCA bring animal offenders to justice.

They are collectively offering their services free of charge to the Auckland SPCA, which is struggling in the economic crisis to meet the costs of prosecutions.

Anita Killeen, who was recently appointed to the board of directors of the Auckland SPCA, has set up a "pro-bono panel of prosecutors" for the SPCA.

Under the Animal Welfare Act (1999), SPCA warranted inspectors are able to bring serious animal offenders before the court, usually preparing their own cases, and often needing to call on costly legal assistance when cases go into defended hearings.

The panel has 21 members, including 13 QCs.

Killeen says one of the SPCA's objectives is for greater deterrence for offenders.

The depth and breadth of litigation experience available will ensure prosecutions are put to the court in the most effective and appropriate manner, she says.

Bob Kerridge, executive director of the Auckland SPCA, says it is the most impressive line-up of prosecutors the country has ever seen.

"I am concerned that the society, which has an important law enforcement function, receives no financial support in the execution of its duties in bringing prosecution proceedings before the court," he says.

"The cost to the organisation is immense, and in this ever tightening economy our operating funds, which come exclusively from public donations, are severely drained in the undertaking of this very vital aspect of our valuable work to the community.

"The severity of the offences against animals cannot be understated", Kerridge says.

"We are aware of the research that shows there is a link between animal cruelty and human cruelty, and in recognising that the courts have the opportunity to treat each with equal force."