Mason Defends Legal Standing Amid Inquiry Controversy

Janet Mason, senior legal counsel assisting in the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) inquiry, has addressed allegations surrounding her legal standing and professional conduct in New Zealand.

Responding to claims of disciplinary penalties, Ms Mason firmly denied any issues with her New Zealand practice.

"I practice in New Zealand. I have a valid practising certificate.

There is no issue with my practice," she said.

"I have a thriving practice with eight solicitors working for me."

Ms Mason clarified that she is admitted to the Fiji Bar and, under the Commission of Inquiry Act, is not required to hold a Fiji practising certificate for her role.

"This is not a court; it's a Commission of Inquiry. I don't need a Fiji practising certificate," she explained.

Nevertheless, she applied for and was granted one following a review by the Legal Practitioners Unit (LPU).

She acknowledged an ongoing appeal in New Zealand regarding a disciplinary matter but maintained that this should not tarnish her professional reputation.

"Even if the appeal doesn't go in my favour, it doesn't mean I lack Integrity or am a bad lawyer," she asserted.

Highlighting her qualifications and experience, Ms Mason dismissed criticisms of her professionalism.

"I have been working with a Supreme Court judge for three months. If you asked him what kind of lawyer Janet Mason is, he would say she is the best," she declared.

Ms Mason also addressed allegations by Stanley Simpson, who accused her of failing to disclose critical information.

She described his claims as "nonsense and a lie," insisting all relevant issues were fully disclosed.

The controversy deepened when the Fiji Law Society sought her removal from the inquiry.

She criticised their approach as "disgraceful," accusing the society of making allegations without proper verification.

"If they have an issue, they should go to the LPU, not turn up in court with baseless claims," she said.

Despite the challenges, Ms Mason reaffirmed her commitment to the FICAC inquiry, maintaining her legal and ethical integrity.

Efforts to reach Fiji Law Society president William Wylie Clarke for comment were met with a "No comment."

Feedback: jone.salusalu@fijisun.com.fj