Sharelle Aitchison

Responsible for determining appeals from persons declined refugee and protection status by the Refugee Status Unit (RSU) of Immigration New Zealand, in addition to determining deportation, humanitarian and residence appeals.

Responsible for determining appeals from persons declined refugee and protection status by the RSU of Immigration New Zealand.

Managed a legal aid programme, implemented in four legal aid offices across Sri Lanka, involving approximately 80 staff members, in Puttalam, Ampara, Trincomalee and Batticaloa districts. The programme provided information, counseling, legal representation, and training to beneficiaries. In addition, the programme included advocacy and protection monitoring on systemic violations of human rights.

Provided legal research, analysis and drafting services to the Judges of the Trial Chamber on international criminal law, international humanitarian law, and human rights standards and jurisprudence. Coordinated and provided primary support for the CDF trial, overseeing and assigning the work of the allocated Associate Legal Officers and interns.

Conducted legal research and drafted court decisions, orders and memoranda at the direction of the Trial and Appeals Chambers. Assisted in the drafting of trial and appeals judgments and legal analysis of trial evidence.

Provided legal research and analysis for the Prosecutor’s Office in Mitrovica. Drafted indictments, trial briefs, and other necessary trial documentation. Provided case management for the Prosecutor’s Office.

Manager of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), Civil Rights Project (CRP), in Prizren, Kosovo – a legal aid office, providing legal representation and advice on civil rights issues, to refugees, returnees, internally displaced persons and minorities.

Provided legal advice on gender-related issues to UNMIK Departments.