Mid Canterbury’s latest Justice of the Peace promises to "be the bridge” between Pasifika families and medical and court systems.

She’s Cordelia Ale, who has already got straight into the role’s official paperwork just weeks since being appointed.

"So far, I’ve had to deal with the certification of documents, making sure it’s done appropriately.”

Ale, who moved from Samoa to Auckland and then Ashburton, wants to act as a link between Pasifika families and unfamiliar legal and health systems.

"When you’re coming from the islands, it’s a whole new world,'' said Ale, who also runs a Pasifika study group in Ashburton to prepare college students for university or employment.

"I want to be that bridge between them.''

With Ashburton’s Pasifika population having increased by 22% since the last census national head count, Ale said it was important everyone had equal access and support.

That’s why she’s stepped up to help as a Justice of the Peace (JP), who are judicial officers able to low level legal tasks like certifying documents and handling declarations. They can also sign affidavits, take oaths, and help with citizenship applications but they don't get paid. It's all part of a community service.

"My role is just being one of those leaders in the community who guides them into the right processes.”

Her interest in legal work began with her mother and life back in Samoa.

"My mum was a stenographer (official court transcriber) back home in Samoa, and there are a couple of family members who are lawyers.”

Ashburton deputy mayor Liz McMillan approached Ale about becoming a JP to assist the growing Pasifika population in the district.

She didn’t take long to consider it, having already been an interpreter for defendants in Ashburton’s court, which is setting that can be scary and overwhelming.

"It’s dealing with the not-so-nice side of life.

"It can be a daunting experience for some people.”

By Anisha Satya