Government opens first district court in Joondalup

8/3/00
At a specially convened sitting at the Joondalup Courthouse, Attorney General Peter Foss today launched monthly District Court sittings signifying a new era in access to justice in the community
Criminal matters, not requiring the presence of a jury, will be heard at District Court sittings in Joondalup every second Thursday of each month.
"The District Courts reach out to the metropolitan area is a significant step in providing increased access to justice at a local level," Mr Foss said.
The Joondalup District Court sittings, which will consider approximately 15 pleas and fast-track matters, will be presided over by the Chief Judge of the District Court, His Honour Judge Kevin J Hammond.
Fast tracking is a streamlined method of dealing with offenders who have pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity in the lower court and do not want to defend the charge.
District Court sittings are also planned for the new $7.5 million Rockingham complex currently under construction, and the $15 million Fremantle justice complex which is due to begin construction this month.
Both new complexes will have modern jury courtroom facilities and the latest in videolink technology.
"We are continually responding to our customer's needs," Mr Foss said.
"These first District Court sittings in Joondalup will pave the way for a more efficient process of delivering justice to our various communities, within their community."

The upgraded courthouses and equipment are all part of the State Government's election promise and a further commitment in providing a Safer WA.

Media contact: Chris Morris 9321 2222