The Government's introduction of new sentences for coward punches is being described as merely cosmetic. 

It's announced specific offences for striking a distracted victim - which could carry a sentence of life imprisonment, if fatal. 

But Law Association Vice President Julie-Anne Kincade told Ryan Bridge she understands people have been looking for reform in this area. 

She doesn't think it will make a huge impact, as the changes will add one year to the maximum penalty of offences which already exist.

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The Government's introduction of new sentences for coward punches is being described as merely cosmetic.&nbsp;
It's announced specific offences for striking a distracted victim - which could carry a sentence of life imprisonment, if fatal.&nbsp;
But Law Association Vice President Julie-Anne Kincade told Ryan Bridge she understands people have been looking for reform in this area.&nbsp;
She doesn't think it will make a huge impact, as the changes will add one year to the maximum penalty of offences which already exist.
LISTEN ABOVE

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

Early Edition with Ryan Bridge

Julie-Anne Kincade KC: Law Association Vice President on the Government's introduction of new sentences for coward punches

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/a9b39cc2-88f5-4729-9cfe-b30c012f6aa6/transcript