“IT’S A SHAME”

Hokitika Guardian, 22 December 1933, Page 4

“IT’S A SHAME”

HUSBAND’S ABUSE OF WIFE,

MAINTENANCE CASE EVIDENCE

(Per Pre 83 Association, Copyright).

WELLINGTON, December 21

David James Richards appeared before Mr Stillwell, S.M., in th e Magfctiate’ s Court, seeking the re-r.-.-arri'i,! of a case, in which he wars .sentenced to two months' imprisonment unless he pays. Past ?nd current maintenance in respect of his wife and child. ~The application for a re-hearing was on the grounds of bi s inability. t 0 pay maintenance.

Mr Watson, counsel for the wife,., objected that n re-hearing could be/: granted only if... fresh evidence had been discovered. , .

Mr Stillwell said there were, .uo grounds in Richards’ : .present. application on which the Court would grant a re-hearing.

‘‘l'm swindled out of justice—that’s the position. It’ s a shameful thing,” cried Richards, Mr Watson asked for costs, saying Richards deliberately abusea the process of both the Magistrate’s Court and the Supreme Court whenever . he could. .It - cost him nothing for fi’ecment and harassing litigation against his wife.

At this stage Richards’ description of his wife wa s such that the. Magistrate threatened to .have him. put in custody if he did not; restrain his tongue. Two guineas costs’.' - were allowed Mr Watson, and the Magistrate/ left the Bench to the accompaniment, of a cry of “Justice? . Justice? It’S. & shame!” from Richards.