Criminal defence barrister Samira Taghavi has been elected Vice-President of The Law Association of New Zealand. A long-time active member, she said she is honoured and committed to representing members while upholding the rule of law.

Samira addresses the alarming exodus of criminal defence lawyers due to courtroom hostility, lack of judicial empathy, and crushing workloads. Drawing from her Iranian legal experience, she calls for systemic reform prioritising humanity and dignity.

Attorney-General Judith Collins KC responds to Samira's advocacy, declaring zero tolerance for judicial bullying. Collins confirms she won't reward poor conduct with KC appointments or judicial roles, validating Samira's concerns about courtroom behaviour.

Samira discusses how judicial resistance to virtual proceedings causes 'outrageous' delays. She shares cases of defendants waiting years for minor offences due to judges refusing remote guilty pleas despite pandemic technology.

Samira reveals defence lawyers' hidden struggles: 80-hour weeks, unpaid advocacy work, and mental health crises. She calls for judicial empathy, noting some lawyers take anti-anxiety medication before court while young lawyers flee the profession.

Reports nearly 450 assaults in NZ courthouses since 2019, highlighting dangerous conditions where criminal defence lawyers like Samira and Patrick work daily, adding another dimension to their professional challenges.

Examines increasing trial backlogs causing extended delays for defendants and lawyers. While neither Samira nor Patrick is quoted, the article addresses systemic challenges central to ActiveLegal's daily practice.

Samira warns against suppressing dissenting viewpoints, drawing on Iranian experiences witnessing brutal punishment of dissent. She argues true debate requires engaging with logic, not personal attacks, urging protection of free speech.

Samira shares her journey from practicing law in Iran—witnessing judicial hangings and suffering arrests—to becoming a prominent NZ criminal barrister. She discusses her extensive lobbying work and human rights advocacy.

Samira appears as panellist discussing current affairs including mental distress in healthcare and detained NZ influencers in Iran. She brings unique perspective as Iranian-New Zealander and human rights advocate.

Samira argues defence lawyers are essential to free society, citing Alan Hall's wrongful conviction. Drawing from Iranian experiences, she explains why fighting for fair trials prevents wrongful imprisonments and protects fundamental rights.

Samira organises major Aotea Square protest calling for Iranian sanctions bill under urgency. She demands Revolutionary Guards be added to NZ's terrorist list as Iran supplies Russia with attack drones.

Samira provides expert commentary on NZ government's response to Iran's human rights crisis. As Woman, Life, Freedom movement spokesperson, she advocates for sanctions and condemnation of regime violence.

Samira delivers speeches at rallies and media outlets supporting Iranian protesters risking lives for freedom. Her advocacy combines personal testimony with legal frameworks, maintaining international attention on Iran's brutal crackdown.

Samira criticises government prioritising detained influencers over systematic Iranian human rights abuses. She argues NZ's diplomatic efforts should focus on thousands of Iranians being arrested, tortured, and killed.

Samira provides commentary on government's successful diplomatic negotiations. She argues these diplomatic channels prove NZ can leverage relationships with Iran for broader human rights advocacy beyond individual cases.

Profile of Samira as TLANZ Public & Administrative Law Committee convenor. Highlights her Masters in Public Law, governing council membership, and leadership exploring constitutional law, judicial review, and policy issues.

Samira leads calls for NZ to officially condemn Iran's Revolutionary Guard and designate it as terrorist organisation. She emphasises concrete action with real consequences needed, not just symbolic gestures.

Samira presents at NZAMI seminar on criminal conviction and deportation liability. She explains how discharge without conviction protects visa holders from deportation, demonstrating ActiveLegal's niche expertise in this area.