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VLRC aims for cheaper, fairer, simpler litigation
21 September 2006
Lawyers, litigants and judges will be able to propose changes to the way people are sued as part of a new review of the civil justice system.
The Victorian Law Reform Commission released a Consultation Paper today which calls for submissions that outline the problems with the system and potential solutions.
“We want to hear about the issues that impact on the fairness and cost of our system,” law reform commissioner Dr Peter Cashman said.
“It is in the interests of people using the system and the administration of justice to reduce costs and delays. Our review is looking at how we can make the civil system fairer, cheaper and simpler to ensure all Victorians can access justice.”
Particular issues to be considered include costs, the role of expert witnesses, and procedures that would simplify and speed up resolution of complaints. Mediation and forms of dispute resolution other than court trials will also be examined.
“The commission will be working with judges, the legal profession and members of the community to identify areas where change is needed,” Dr Cashman said.
The review will be examining rules and procedures in the Magistrates’, County and Supreme Courts. It will not look at the Family Court of the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). It will examine recent reforms in Australian and overseas jurisdictions.
The Consultation Paper is on the commission’s website: www.lawreform.vic.gov.au. The civil system covers all cases which are not criminal.