NSW: Lawyer considering suing judge over IUD case

AAP General News (Australia)
08-30-2001
NSW: Lawyer considering suing judge over IUD case

The lawyer for a group of more than 300 women whose case against the makers of the
Copper 7 IUD contraceptive has now been resolved, is considering suing the former judge
who heard their case.

Outside the New South Wales Supreme Court, Dr PETER CASHMAN said today's resolution
follows the earlier failure of former Justice VINCE BRUCE to give a proper and reasoned
decision in the case.

Justice BRUCE heard the case, Australia's longest and most complex product liability
litigation, in 1996 and delivered his judgment in 1999, finding in favour of IUD's makers
G D Searle.

After giving his judgment, Justice BRUCE resigned following complaints of delays in
his judgments, a state government attempt to remove him from the bench, and the disclosure
that he suffered from depression.

His Copper 7 judgment was overturned on appeal last year and a new trial ordered.

Dr CASHMAN's told reporters that Justice BRUCE's judgment was inadequate and consideration
is being given to suing the former judge.

The terms of today's resolution in the case are confidential.

AAP RTV gl/jjs/ldj/rp

KEYWORD: IUD (SYDNEY)

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