McDougall v Henderson - [1976] 1 NZLR 59

Evidence — Privilege of medical advisers — Psychiatrist had seen both husband and wife on separate occasions — Psychiatrist subpoenaed to give evidence for wife in separation, custody and maintenance proceedings in Magistrate's Court — Husband unwilling to waive privilege — Meaning of "communication" in s 8(1) of the Evidence Act 1908.

Medicine, pharmacy and related professions — Privileges and exemptions — Confidential communications by patient to psychiatrist — Evidence Act 1908, s 8(1).

Administrative law — Supreme Court has inherent jurisdiction to set aside witness summons issued out of Magistrate's Court.

Courts — Supreme Court's jurisdiction in relation to inferior jurisdiction — Inherent jurisdiction to set aside witness summons issued out of Magistrate's Court.