Auckland lawyers are rallying to keep a court social worker in her job after her position was axed by a community organisation.
Michelle Kidd at her investiture ceremony in 2010. Photo: Government House
Michelle Kidd of Whakatohea has been a Kaihono ki te Rangimarie (social worker) at the Auckland District Court for 16 years, helping defendants, victims and their whanau.
The Methodist community organisation Lifewise cut her position this month.
Some lawyers were unhappy with the news she would no longer be at the court and have set up a charitable trust to fund her role.
The president of the Criminal Bar Association, Tony Bouchier, said Ms Kidd's position was far too important to lose.
Mr Bouchier said it was important that Mrs Kidd's work continued over Christmas and New Year because it was a difficult time for the people she helps.
Ms Kidd, who also works with Auckland's homeless people, was awarded the Queen's Service Medal in 2010 for services to the community.
