Bench book on children launched
THE Judicial Department, in collaboration with UNICEF (United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund), has launched a book to assist judges and magistrates when conducting court proceedings involving children.
Acting Chief Justice Kamal Kumar said the main purpose of publishing the book was to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children were maintained in all respects.
“Bench Book on Children sets out very useful guidelines as to how judges, magistrates and lawyers are to communicate with children at different stages of their life, to ensure children’s best interest, wellbeing and safety is protected at all times,” he said.
He said the book was only a guide and not “cast in stone”.
“Judges and magistrates dealing with matters involving children can add to the guideline or vary the guideline which, in their opinion, best suits the circumstances before the court at any given time.”
UNICEF Pacific representative Sheldon Yett said the document was a critical piece for the Judicial Department.
“It really helps judges and magistrates ensure best practices in line with the conventional rights of a child,” he said.
“The judges will know how to ensure privacy and that they can follow some of the necessary measures with psychological support of children in court proceedings to make sure that both parties get the most out of the law and the participation of children in the court system.
“It is essential that judges and magistrates are equipped with knowledge and skills needed to ensure children are handled with the sensitivity required.”
He said the book included information, skills and ways to work with children who came in contact with the justice system, based on the latest knowledge and child psychology.