Practice directions - District Court
New protocol for sexual offence proceedings – District Court
The Chief Judge has issued Practice Direction 3 of 2024 and accompanying information notice introducing a new approach to sexual violence offence proceedings in the District Court of Queensland in accordance with best practice principles.
This will include a Sexual Violence Case Management Pilot in both the Brisbane and Ipswich District Courts.
Sexual violence case management is expected to minimise delay in the Court process, provide greater certainty to all Court users, and reduce the potential for re-traumatisation of witnesses.
The Practice Direction commences on 2 September 2024. To support practitioners in preparing for implementation, the Court is holding information sessions:
- Thursday 15 August 2024 and Tuesday 20 August 2024, 4.30pm to 6.30pm, Banco Court, QEII Courts of Law (Brisbane)
- Tuesday 27 August 2024, 4.30pm to 6.30pm, Ipswich Courthouse.
Register now to attend in person or via livestream.
Practice directions are procedural guidelines issued by judges in the District Courts.
The directions are designed to complement existing legislation, rules and regulations and may refer to issues including the use of the court precinct, appearances by practitioners and parties, and case management.