Williams v Cameron

[2016] NZHC 616

IN THE HIGH COURT OF NEW ZEALAND NELSON REGISTRY

CIV 2014-442-88 [2016] NZHC 616

BETWEEN

PETER ANTHONY WILLIAMS

Appellant

AND

TREVOR NELSON CAMERON First Respondent

ROBIN WHALLEY Second Respondent

RICHARDS WOODHOUSE Third Respondent

On the papers
Judgment:	8 April 2016

JUDGMENT OF MALLON J (Costs)

[1]     The respondents seek costs on a 2B basis.   The matter was, however, straightforward and minimal time was required to respond to the applications as illustrated by the brief written and oral submissions advanced by the respondents. Any costs award should be on a 1A basis.

[2]      The appellant was in receipt of legal aid until 23 July 2015.  I am not satisfied that there are exceptional circumstances such that the respondents should be awarded costs notwithstanding the legal aid position, nor that any costs should be awarded for any steps taken before 23 July 2015.

[3]      Accordingly costs on a 1A basis are awarded in the respondents’ favour but

only in respect of steps taken after 23 July 2015.

Mallon J

WILLIAMS v CAMERON [2016] NZHC 616 [8 April 2016]