The Victorian courts and Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) have implemented contingency plans in response to the circuit-breaker restrictions currently in effect.
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Victoria, Anne Ferguson said the courts and VCAT would work closely with Victoria’s legal profession and justice Agencies to manage the delivery of justice during the restrictions.
“The courts and VCAT have continued to operate and deliver justice through all levels of restrictions, including the circuit breaker in February,” Chief Justice Ferguson said.
“We have planned for this possibility and we are well placed to respond to the latest advice,” she said.
“In accordance with the public health advice, matters will be held in person only where it is not practicable for them to be held remotely and it is essential that they proceed.”
Chief Justice Ferguson said the courts and VCAT would continue to hear as many matters remotely as possible however, some matters may be adjourned for a period of time.
She said criminal jury trials which were already underway would continue, following COVID-safe plans, although a few may also be adjourned and no new criminal jury trails would begin until restrictions eased.
“Every effort will be made to re-list any vacated trials as soon as possible,” she said.
“We will continue to follow public health advice and take all steps possible to minimise potential disruption and ensure matters are dealt with in a timely way.”
Chief Justice Ferguson said the courts and VCAT were very conscious that restrictions required many participants in the court system to operate remotely and jurisdictions would be mindful of the challenges that presented.
“The health and safety of all court and tribunal participants is of the highest priority,” she said.
