A lawyer who criticised the outcome of a domestic violence case is refusing to be silenced by an investigation into her comments.

It centres on a case in which a judge discharged a man, who'd lashed out after seeing texts between his wife and a male friend.

The judge told the man many people would have done the same in his shoes.

Lawyer Catriona MacLennan condemned the comment and said the judge shouldn't be on the bench.

Now she's facing the prospect of a censure by the Law Society, or a $15,000 dollar fine.

She says the investigation brings into question her right to freedom of expression.

"I'm very surprised by the investigation, I think this case is about freedom of speech."

Ms MacLennan says it was inappropriate and she won't be silenced.

"I've been an anti-domestic violence advocate for twenty-one years, these comments were made by me as an expert."