Top judge picks up Teina Pora's compensation claim

Teina Pora lodged an application for compensation in April 2015. Photo / Nick Reed

A leading former High Court judge has been appointed to assess Teina Pora's compensation claim.

Retired Justice Rodney Hansen has been appointed to conduct the inquiry into Mr Pora's claim for compensation for wrongful conviction and imprisonment, it was announced today.

Justice Minister Amy Adams said Mr Hansen was well placed to carry out the review.

"I received Mr Pora's application for compensation earlier this year. After careful consideration, I've decided that Mr Pora's claim merits further assessment and have referred his claim to a Queen's Counsel for advice," she said.

"Mr Hansen's distinguished legal career makes him well-placed to consider the claim objectively. His experience includes sitting on the bench in a number of high-profile criminal cases, and I've no doubt he will take to this important task diligently."

An application for compensation for wrongful conviction and imprisonment was lodged by Mr Pora in April 2015 after convictions against him for murder, sexual violation and aggravated burglary were quashed.

Mr Pora served 20 years in prison for crimes he did not commit. His convictions were set aside by the Privy Council in March 2015.

Mr Pora is eligible to apply for compensation under the Cabinet criteria for compensation and ex gratia payments for persons wrongly convicted and imprisoned in criminal cases.

The Crown Law Office and Mr Pora's legal representatives have been advised of Mr Hansen's appointment.