NEWCASTLE JUDICIAL STAFF NEEDED TO FIX LENGTHY CASE DELAYS

There were first day nerves and excitement for Newcastle’s legal fraternity today, with the inaugural sitting at the new Courthouse.

It’s hoped cases will now be heard more quickly – but first, lawyers say more money needs to be spent on judiciary staff.

Last year, it took 300 days on average from committal to case finalisation for District Court matters.

Newcastle Barrister Peter Harper today told NBN News, “We’ve got the resources in terms of infrastructure, now we just need the feet on the floor. Judges, magistrates, prosecutors and perhaps legal aid because those guys do the lion’s share of the work.”

Two District Courts will sit every week, plus two or three local courts.

The Supreme Court will also sit more frequently.