The Dominica Bar Association is calling for the immediate suspension of the Ministry of Legal Affairs’ new “night court” initiative. The programme, which introduced Magistrates’ Court sittings from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays to Thursdays, took effect on September 8.President of the Association, Noelize Knight Didier says while the Association supports the Ministry’s aim of improving access to justice and reducing case backlogs, it says the move raises serious concerns for court users and legal professionals. The Association further criticized the lack of consultation with key stakeholders and questioned whether a feasibility study had been conducted. The DBA further suggests that the Ministry instead focus on filling magistrate vacancies, better utilizing daytime courtrooms, and improving case management. President of the Dominica Bar Association, Noelize Knight Didier. The Dominica Bar Association has written to the Ministry of National Security and Legal Affairs, urging meaningful dialogue to ensure that any reforms enhance efficiency without compromising fairness or accessibility.
