Good Decision Making in Public Law Workshop
Issues covered include: Legal Framework for Decisions, Recognising the Wider Context, The Process, Decision Making Tools, Use of Information, Potential Challenges to a Decision
Description
Featuring renowned barrister, Ben Keith, this workshop will cover the legal framework for good decision-making, from the perspective of those acting as or advising and supporting decision-makers and of those seeking to engage effectively with or challenge decision-makers. You will canvass current and recurring issues through worked examples and recent judicial and other decisions. This workshop is tailored to lawyers at all levels and will equip you with the necessary skills to refine your decision making.
Attend and earn 3 CPD Hours
WORKSHOP
9.00am to 10.00am: The Legal Framework and Wider Context of Decisions
Determining the Legal Framework for Decisions
- What is or are the relevant power(s)?
- Who may exercise it?
- What are the relevant purpose(s), constraints and conditions?
Recognising the Wider Context
- The Treaty/te Tiriti
- Human rights
- International obligations
- Other relevant statutes
- The common law
10.00am to 11.00am: The Process and Decision Making Tools
Getting the Process Right
- Receipt and collection of relevant information
- Consultation
- Fairness
- Avoidance of actual or apparent conflicts or bias
Decision-making Tools
- Policy and other guidance
- Assisted and automated decision-making
- Delegation
- Resort to external/expert advice
11.00am to 11.15am: Morning Tea
11.15am to 12.15pm: Use of Information and Potential Challenges to a Decision
Use of Information
- Access
- Disclosure
- Record-keeping
- Information-sharing
- Public/media engagement
When Things (Might) go Wrong
- Anticipating and/or responding to the prospect of complaint, challenge or wider criticism
- Instituting and operating internal and external complaint, review and/or appeal procedures
- Modifying or retaking decisions
- Remedies for error
Presented by Ben Keith, Barrister, Thorndon Chambers
Ben Keith is a barrister specialising in administrative, constitutional, human rights and public international law. Ben has made significant appearances at all levels of the New Zealand court system and in international fora and has advised and appeared in wider matters. These have included civil and criminal procedure, extradition, immigration law and refugee protection, law reform and legislative policy, private international law, regulatory and investigatory powers and obligations under te Tiriti o Waitangi/the Treaty of Waitangi. Ben’s appointments include serving as the first Deputy Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security, an appointment under warrant made by the Governor-General, undertaking several substantial inquiries, extensive work in national security law and wider oversight of legal and policy compliance. Ben has also worked as a specialist Crown Counsel in several roles within the New Zealand Crown Law Office, responsible for advising and representing the Attorney-General, other Ministers of the Crown and a broad range of government agencies.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the legal framework underpinning decision making
- Consider the wider context that affects decision making
- Develop strategies to ensure fairness and avoid actual or apparent conflicts or bias
- Receive valuable practical guidance on decision making tools
- Benefit from an understanding of the use of information
- Learn how to anticipate and respond to the prospect of a complaint, challenge or wider criticism
Testimonials
“Both practical and academic”
“Magnificent”
“Extremely knowledgeable, relevant and clear”
Venue
InterContinental Wellington
Level 1, 2 Grey Street
Wellington 6011
New Zealand
Directions
The Intercontinental is a 2 min walk from Lambton Quay which has a number of buses going to airport and suburbs. It's a 10 min walk to the nearest train station. Taxis are also available downstairs at the hotel entry.
Parking
Limited valet parking available at $20 per day. Additional parking available at Wilson Parking with $5 per half hour and $22 for early-bird.
Parking is not included in the registration fee and price is subject to change.