Additional bail and arrest courts post Easter to alleviate pressure on court system: CLP

The NT’s Attorney-General says the proactive measure would assist courts during closures over the Easter weekend.

The Darwin Local Court. Picture: Katrina Bridgeford

The Northern Territory’s courts will have extra bail and arrest court sessions after the Easter and Anzac Day long weekends, which the government says is a step towards a more efficient justice system.

The Darwin Local Court will run additional courts on April 22, 23, 24, 28 and 30, to deal with an anticipated increase in the number of people in custody.

The local court will close from Good Friday to Easter Monday, and on Anzac Day.

Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby said the courts’ closure necessitated the extra courts.

“Easter is a fun time for people to spend with their friends and families, but when people break the law, we will hold them accountable and ensure justice is served,” Ms Boothby said.

“Those who commit crimes will face the consequences no matter the occasion, because the law is not suspended for the holidays, and neither is our commitment to upholding law and order and protecting the community.”

Ms Boothby said the courts were busier due to the CLP’s hard on crime approach.

“Since coming into office, we have locked up more than 600 prisoners – that’s 600 less offenders out on our streets committing more crimes and harming victims,” said Ms Boothby.

“We promised Territorians a year of action, certainty and security, and people who break the law will face the consequences and we make no apologies for that.”

“Thank you to everyone working in the courts, corrections and law enforcement throughout the public holidays, your efforts are recognised and appreciated.”

Originally published as Additional bail and arrest courts post Easter to alleviate pressure on court system: CLP