Townsville celebrates Law Week with courtroom tours and mock hearings

Courtroom tours, mock hearings and open viewings will be among the highlights of Law Week celebrations on 12 to 19 May in Townsville.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Kerry Shine said the Townsville Magistrates Court would conduct public tours from Monday 14 May to Friday 18 May at 9am.

“These tours are always popular because they give residents a chance to see the local trappings of our justice system firsthand,” Mr Shine said.

“Our courts play a leading role in making Queensland a safer, fairer place to live, but many people have never actually been inside them.

“These tours are a very practical example of this year’s celebration, which is all about opening the doors to the law.”

Mr Shine said local residents also had the opportunity to attend two mock hearings being held at the Townsville Magistrates Court on Tuesday 15 May and Wednesday 16 May at 5.30pm, with the topics to be chosen by local law students at James Cook University.

There will also be an open viewing of the Murri Court in session on Thursday 17 May at 9.30am.

“Murri Courts were introduced on a trial basis five years ago to reduce the disproportionate number of Indigenous people in custody, as part of our broader commitment to reducing crime and creating safer communities,” Mr Shine said.

“Local Elders and other Indigenous representatives provide the court with cultural advice and background information on defendants to help magistrates weigh the evidence and particular circumstances of each case in reaching their decisions.”

Places for the Murri Court viewing are limited. To arrange a pass, call the court registry on 4761 8332.

Mr Shine said online discussion forums were also being held in conjunction with Law Week, from 12-27 May, and encouraged local residents to have their say through the Get Involved website at www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au.

“These forums give people a chance to exchange views on a particular topic each day and have their questions answered by experts,” he said.

“They will focus on mediation and alternative dispute resolution, wills, the importance of jury service, young people’s rights and enduring powers of attorney.

“We are also opening another practical door to the law through our education packs for legal studies teachers and students in Queensland high schools.

“The education packs are available electronically and tie in closely with our online forums.”

The packs can be ordered by registering an interest at public.affairs@justice.qld.gov.au.

Mr Shine said Law Week played an important role in enriching community understanding of the law, justice system and legal profession.

“Most people thankfully will never have to appear in court as victims or offenders, but the reality is that the law affects all of us on a daily basis,” he said.

“Our laws are vital to ensuring Queensland remains a safe, enjoyable place to live and they continue to evolve in response to changing circumstances and public concerns.”

“Law Week provides an ideal opportunity to discuss the way the law influences our lives and shapes our community for the better.”

11 May 2007
Media contact: Kirby Anderson (Mr Shine’s office) 3239 6400 or 0418 197 350 kirby.anderson@ministerial.qld.gov.au