Page updated on: Monday February 5, 2007
Baywide has been established to provide free access to legal information, advice, assistance, advocacy or educationf or residents throughout the Bay of Plenty who due to their personal or financial circumstances (including disability) cannot otherwise access such services. Baywide's primary focus is to address the unmet legal needs of the community.
Baywide is one of 27 Community Law Centres located throughout New Zealand. Baywide is administered by the Baywide Community Law Services Trust. Baywide employs qualified lawyers, para-legal staff, community liaison workers and administration staff. Staff are located in Tauranga and Whakatane and legal clinics are also available at small rural communities, eg. Opotiki.
Baywide has a special working relationship with Citizens Advice Bureaux in Whakatane and Tauranga and also fosters close working relaitonships with other community agencies.
Baywide has a commitment to legal education in the community and staff are available to faciitate education on a wide range of legal issues including domestic violence, Family and District Court proceedings, individual rights, consumer rights and employee rights.
Baywide is governed by the Legal Services Act 2000 and all staff must strictly comply with the terms of the Act. Baywide is not a government department.
Baywide is also committed to assisting the community in addressing needs for law reform.