The case was further complicated after Parliament passed legislation preventing further claimants from the Atkinson proceedings.
However, Ms Spencer has won her case every step of the way, with the most recent judgment from last year opening the way for this week's compensation case.
At the High Court in Auckland today, Ms Spencer sat at the back with Paul, alongside a small handful of supporters.
Between the claimant, the Crown and the Human Rights Commission there were ten lawyers, with the judge supported by two laymen on the bench.
The courtroom was littered with dozens of folders, suitcases and boxes due to the huge volume of evidence in the case.
Ms Spencer's lawyer Jim Farmer explained succinctly the trials his client had gone through to get the case as far as she had.
"This is not an easy road for people who are seeking redress in this area...but here we are," Mr Farmer said.
The case is set down for a week.