The lawyer representing victims of a former Russell McVeagh partner, whose behaviour helped ignite New Zealand’s #MeToo movement, says it’ll be up to clients whether they want to work with him.

James Gardner-Hopkins was found guilty of six misconduct charges by the Lawyers and Conveyancers Disciplinary Tribunal in 2021 - and suspended for three years.

He’s now been granted a new practising certificate by the Law Society, which says he’s fit to return as a barrister.

Steph Dyhrberg says the decision will put some clients off, but others may not see it as a barrier.

"That's the thing about having a practicing certificate, you've sort of got a brand on you from the Law Society that you're a fit and suitable person."

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