Manly Court Demystifies Law for Multicultural Students

Manly Courthouse is opening its doors on Thursday, 1 August to educate multicultural TAFE students about the criminal justice system, Member for Manly James Griffin announced today.

“The open day is a great opportunity for newly-arrived migrants and refugees to learn about legal services in NSW, and to understand how courts operate,” Mr Griffin said.

There will be up to 70 people attending the open day including students from Tibet, China, Thailand and Spain who are currently studying English at TAFE on the Northern Beaches.

“It’s important for the students to understand that in NSW we have a fair, transparent and accessible justice system.”

Manly Registrar Michael Barbour will give an overview of Local Court procedures, registry services as well as a tour of the courthouse and an introduction to a magistrate.

They will learn about the driving licence regime in NSW, demerit points and the dangers of drink driving.

There will also be a mock trial of a newly-arrived migrant who has been charged with speeding and driving while unlicensed, two of the most common criminal charges in the Local Court.

In addition, Domestic Violence Liaison Officers will inform them about the range of free support available for victims of crime.

Mr Griffin said it was fantastic to see the Local Court and TAFE working together to support newly-arrived migrants, refugees and international students.

“The majority of these students have only been in NSW for a short time, so it’s important they know where they can get legal assistance if they need it,” he said.

“Court open days help to break down barriers between multicultural communities and the justice system.”