Magistrates’ Courts adjourn all non-custody matters and close proceedings to the public amid coronavirus pandemic
Magistrates’ courts are adjourning all non-custody matters and court rooms are being closed to the public and the media in an effort to reduce crowding. It’s hoped the new measures will help stem the spread of COVID-19 amid a wider statewide lockdown.
Outer East
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Magistrates’ courts across the state could be closed to the public and the media as the fallout from this morning’s State Government lock down announcement continues.
Ringwood Magistrates’ Court staff this morning were permitting just the accused and their legal representative in to court rooms, with friends, family and the media asked to leave.
All cases except custody matters were also adjourned to a future date.
Chief Magistrate Lisa Hannan announced last week the court would roll out measures to reduce crowding in court buildings, including increasing the number of video links and phone appearances.
Timelines for scheduled court appearances were also extended, with people charged on summons told they must now wait at least five months for their case to be heard.
Bail matters could also expect to be delayed by at least three months, while the Koori court, school visits and new bench welcomes were last week suspended indefinitely.
A magistrates’ court spokeswoman, who didn’t want to be named, was unable to confirm if all magistrates’ courts would close to the public and the media.
But she said Chief Magistrate Judge Lisa Hannan was in meetings to determine how court proceedings would continue amid the coronavirus pandemic and a public announcement would soon be made, she said.
Social media users on a private Facebook page noted many cases at Broadmeadows, Dandenong, Geelong, Sunshine, Warrnambool, Latrobe Valley and Sale were being adjourned, some for as far away as October.
Frankston, Heidelberg, Moorabbin and Werribee courts appeared to be running as usual, according the page.
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Ms Hannan said last week the courts would continue to follow state and federal government advice regarding health and safety measures for the coronavirus.
“The Magistrates’ Court is an essential part of Victoria’s justice system and committed to continuing to serve our community in these difficult times. By implementing changes now we are optimising our ability to continue to provide services as this situation evolves,” Ms Hannan said.
More to come.