Derby courthouse upgrade helps victims and judiciary

9/9/04 Improved facilities for victims, juries and the disabled were a key focus of a $700,000 refurbishment of the Derby Courthouse, unveiled today by Attorney General Jim McGinty.

9/9/04
Improved facilities for victims, juries and the disabled were a key focus of a $700,000 refurbishment of the Derby Courthouse, unveiled today by Attorney General Jim McGinty.
Mr McGinty said the upgrade was necessary, as the 1960 building had many deficiencies that hampered the delivery of modern justice services to the people of the West Kimberley.
"The Government has a strong commitment to providing support to all victims of crime, particularly in regional areas," he said.
The court refurbishments include:

  • victim support facilities and interview room;
  • separate access for the jury;
  • relocation of the jury box and witness stand;
  • jury room improvements;
  • disabled access to the courtroom and administration area;
  • general maintenance within the courtroom; and
  • refurbishment of the administration area.
The Attorney General said it was important that the refurbishments included facilities for victims of crime, enabling the Victim Support Service to more effectively respond to the needs of victims.
"The Government is particularly committed to addressing the needs of victims of domestic violence," he said.
"The introduction of legislation during the current session of Parliament to amend the Restraining Orders Act is testament to that commitment.
"The amendments include provision for lifetime orders in certain cases of violent personal offences.
"They also allow police to make on-the-spot 24-hour and 72-hour violence restraining orders."
Mr McGinty said in the past financial year, the VSS had 541 referrals in the Kimberley region, of which 57 were in Derby.
"Most referrals relate to issues involving family violence," he said.
"In the three months to June 30, there were 29 domestic violence reports, with 22 violence restraining orders served."
The Attorney General said the Derby court dealt with a variety of jurisdictions and processes including Children's Court, Petty Sessions, District Court, Coroners Court, Family Court and Warden's Court. The Supreme Court circuit might also sit in Derby.
The court also provides licensing services on behalf of the Department of Planning and Infrastructure.
Attorney General's office - 9220 5000