The Law Society also issued a statement saying it had “undertaken an internal process in relation to this matter”.
“This has now concluded and respecting the confidential nature of that process, we will be making no further comment on the outcome.”
The Law Society’s statement added that it acknowledged “the concern that this has caused”.
“We are committed to facilitating appropriate consideration of the use of character references following conviction, acknowledging that there will be a broad range of views. “
Nicola said she was surprised and disappointed by that response and called for greater “transparency” from the Law Society and “more reassurance” for victims.
She contrasted it with the “very firm and decisive action” that was taken by Lavery’s other employers at the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission (NIHRC).
On Tuesday, Northern Ireland Secretary of State Chris Bryant removed Lavery from his post as a human rights commissioner.
The Northern Ireland Office spokesperson said the NIHRC found that Lavery had breached the NIHRC code of governance, and was “capable of bringing the commission into disrepute”.
Nicola said she was “very grateful” to the Bryant and the NIHRC, saying the open and transparent way they had dealt with the issue was a mark of the institution.
“I think it sends a very strong message to victims everywhere that you can have complete trust and confidence in the Human Rights Commission and that they will support you and protect you and champion your rights,” she added.
