Senior lawyer probe "coming to a close"

By Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong 25 January 2020, 10:00AM

Senior lawyer, Maiava Visekota Peteru, remains suspended.

The decision was made by the Samoa Law Society in April 2019, nine months ago where Maiava was prohibited from practicing law pending an investigation by the Society's Complaints Committee.

Asked for an update, the President of the Samoa Law Society, Leiataualesa Komisi Koria, said the investigation against Maiava is “coming to a close” and a decision will be made soon. 

Leiataualesa said he cannot reveal the nature of the complaint against Maiava as it is “disparity to her”. 

“I would prefer to let the whole process finish,” he said. 

“It’s up to her whether she want to disclose that [the nature of the investigation]. 

“We are only required to provide her the outcome of the investigation and we also protect our members.” 

The President also did not want to disclose the names of those in the Committee handling the complaint. 

Attempts to get a comment from Maiava were unsuccessful. 

Maiava, who had been practicing law for more than 35 years, had her practicing certificate suspended temporarily.

Clients that she legally represented in the Courts were dealt with by other legal practitioners. 

At the time, Leiataualesa said the Council of the Samoa Law Society received complaints from members of the public regarding Maiava. 

 "These complaints are being handled in accordance with our Society’s regulatory framework," he said. 

Last year when she was suspended, Maiava issued the following statement:  "An interim suspension of my practising certificate has been issued by the Samoa Law Society this week. 

"I have dedicated the past 35 years of my life to the practise of law in Samoa and intend to follow the Law Society processes with a view to remedy this interim suspension."

By Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong 25 January 2020, 10:00AM

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