The Law Society Northern Territory (Society) is concerned about recent comments made by Members of the Northern Territory Government regarding the findings of the NT Coroner.

The independence and impartiality of the judiciary, of which the Coroner is a member, underpins the proper administration of justice in the Territory.

The Society endorses comments made by the Criminal Lawyers Association of the NT in their recent press release. The comments by the Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence that the Coroner lacks “humility” and was “more focused on reveal rather than result” are extraordinary and an inappropriate intrusion by a member of the executive into the independent work of the judiciary.

Those comments were directed towards an individual judicial officer and the Society is concerned that they may constitute a reprisal for publication of findings critical to the Northern Territory Government.

The Coroner is tasked with identifying how systems have failed to protect Territorians and must be supported to undertake this job without impunity.

Society President Richard Henschke said: “I repeat my earlier comments that the judiciary must be allowed to fulfill their role without negative consequences.

A strong and independent justice system makes our community safer and fairer for all and is integral to the administration of justice.”

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Richard Henschke

President