HALTING JUSTICE.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXII, Issue 5087, 13 July 1877, Page 3

HALTING JUSTICE.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE NEW ZEALAND TIMES. Sin,—The careless, irregular, and unsystematic manner in which the business of the Resident Magistrate’s Court (as relates to civil cases) is conducted, has long been matter of notoriety, and to business men of serious loss and annoyance, and instead of improving, it seems to be getting worse and worse ; in confirmation of which permit me to call your attention to two cases in point, and I think yon will consider them of sufficient public interest to remark on them yourself in a more forcible manner than I am able to. Ist. “A ” has an account against a certain individual running two horses and a waggon between a country district and Wellington. “A” sues for the amount, and obtains, judgment. Defendant pays a portion on account, and is allowed time for the balance, which time having elapsed, and no further payment made, an execution was issued some two months ago, but is returned by the bailiff, marked “No effects,” and he at the same time omits to serve an interpleader summons, although the defendant is still in possession of the two horses and waggon, and it is believed other property, and still follows his avocation. A fraud summons was then issued, and though that is sixteen days ago, and the day of hearing is passed, there, is no word from the bailiff whether it is served or no. 2nd. “B ” issues a summons for an amount owing by a resident of Wellington ; the summons was issued eight days before the hearing of the case ; it is heard, and judgment given for the full ameunt and costs ; and yet, sir, that summons had never been served.

Comment seems to me unnecessary; but with whom does the onus of these things lie ? I think not simply with the bailiff.—l am, &c., Plaintiff.