By Michael Morrah
Controversial Auckland lawyer Chris Comeskey has pleaded guilty to three charges of professional misconduct.
He now runs the risk of being struck off as a lawyer so that he can’t practice.
Comeskey is best known for brokering the return of 96 war medals and defending high-profile clients like Millie Holmes.
He wasn’t saying much as he went before a lawyer’s disciplinary tribunal this afternoon, but a few minutes later, Comeskey admitted three charges.
They included:
- Failing to act appropriately for a client in 2008
- Misleading the Court of Appeal
- Submitting a false invoice to the Legal Services Agency in which he claimed $3,157
The Law Society wants Comeskey struck off as a lawyer, but former president of the society, Gary Gotlieb says that doesn’t happen often.
“It’s very rare. Most complaints are resolved by mediation or often it’s just a misunderstanding.”
The charge of misleading the Court of Appeal relates to submissions Comeskey made for methamphetamine dealer Xiao Hui Huang.
Comeskey told the Court of Appeal he had not seen an exhibit – a backpack containing drugs – when he had.
“If you are talking legal ethics, misleading the Court of Appeal is a no no,” says Mr Gotlieb.
“It’s just not the right look.”
Comeskey also asked his junior colleagues to appear during an indecent assault case when he told his client he would appear.
He then billed the Legal Services Agency, quoting a rate for a senior counsel.
The tribunal hearing began yesterday morning, but drew to a sudden and unexpected end this afternoon following Comeskey’s admission of guilt.
After making the admissions, other charges were withdrawn. They related to comments made to the Herald on Sunday in which Comeskey criticised the judiciary, Court of Appeal and senior prosecutor.
The agency is now investigating 25 other cases where Comeskey’s conduct has been questioned.
Comeskey will be sentenced on Thursday.
3 News