Ipswich residents to get their day in court

Ipswich residents are invited to witness the scales of justice in action during Law Week 2009, from 11-17 May.

As part of next week’s activities, Ipswich Courthouse will hold a moot court on Tuesday 12 May providing the public with a chance to get a better understanding of how the law works.

Attorney-General Cameron Dick said the national theme for Law Week 2009 is ‘the law and your community’ highlighting the importance of improving community access to the courts, police, and legal and government service providers.

“Law Week 2009 will provide a great opportunity for Ipswich residents to get a glimpse inside our court facilities and speak to people at the front-line of our justice system,” Mr Dick said.

“While many Queenslanders may never have to set foot in a courthouse, it is still important for everyone to understand how our justice system works.”

Mr Dick said the moot court will provide a great opportunity for all members of the community to see the law in action by watching a court case play out before a magistrate.

“Law students from Bond University will dress up as characters from Robin Hood and act out the mock hearing,” he said.

“The court will hear that, Robin Hood has been charged with a robbery that allegedly took place in Sherwood Forest.

“He will face the Magistrates court, where the prosecution will try to prove he is guilty.

“I encourage parents and teachers to bring their children and students along, to teach them about the justice system in Queensland and the important role it plays in our everyday lives.”

The Ipswich moot court will begin at 9.30am on Tuesday, 12 May.

Information about the courts will be on display during normal courthouse hours all week, Monday, 11 May to Friday, 15 May.

More information about Law Week activities is available at www.justice.qld.gov.au.

Media contact: 3239 3487