For the Defence is a 1997 documentary, written and directed by Helen Gaynor and produced by December Films. Airing first on ABC TV, the documentary provided unprecedented and unflinching access to the working lives of two Victorian Bar members, John Smallwood and wife Liz Gaynor, and solicitor Leanne Warren during the course of several criminal trials.

Today, John Smallwood and Liz Gaynor are judges on Victoria's County Court bench.

Judge Gaynor's recollections of her career at the Bar can be viewed here.

The Victorian Bar gratefully acknowledges December Films' permission to display this film on our website.

Owing to the documentary's length, the film has been divided into segments for easy streaming and viewing.

Click here to view the film.

A copy of the film transcript is available on request from the Victorian Bar Office.