Hervey Bay Courthouse celebrates Law Week with open day

Local residents will soon be able to take a tour of their local magistrates and district courts as the city celebrates Law Week from 12 to 19 May.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Kerry Shine said the Hervey Bay Courthouse would hold an open day on Saturday 19 May from 9:30am to 12 noon.

“These open days are always popular because they give residents a chance to see the local trappings of our justice system firsthand, from the judges’ bench and prisoners’ dock to the witness stand and jury area,” 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.

“The open day is a very practical example of this year’s celebrations, which are all about opening the doors to the law.”

The Hervey Bay Courthouse is located on the corner of Queens Road and Freshwater Street, Pialba.

Mr Shine said online discussion forums were also being held in conjunction with Law Week, from 12 to 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