The Supreme Court is sitting for a record length of time across regional Victoria this year, but it will not lead to delays in the County Court in Bendigo.
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It is anticipated the Supreme Court will sit for 79 days in Bendigo this year, in contrast to the 23 days the court - Victoria's highest - operated in the city last year.
Criminal matters will be heard in Bendigo in February, March, August and September, while there will be time in March, April and October to hear civil matters.
"Today, we have more technology that can bridge distance, but we should never forget that the court is a court for all Victorians and it is important we take the court to the people in regional Victoria," Chief Justice Anne Ferguson said.
"The more we can take the court to locations that are closer to the individuals, companies and communities involved, the more we can demystify the work and role of the court and develop, listen and learn ourselves."
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The Supreme Court and the County Court use the same courtroom when sitting in Bendigo.
But a County Court spokesperson said the increase in Supreme Court sitting days in the city would not delay matters in the County Court.
"The County Court of Victoria works closely and cooperatively with the Supreme Court to determine, as early as possible, whether the Supreme Court will occupy their trial allocations, or whether the County Court may be able to extend or add to our sittings," the spokesperson said.
The time to trial in Bendigo is consistent with last year, and shorter than it was four to five years ago.
The spokesperson said criminal matters were moved to Shepparton on occasion, but only with consultation with the parties involved, and these cases were generally those that happened in places closer to Shepparton, such as Echuca.
County Court head of circuits Judge Gerard Mullaly said the new Bendigo Law Courts, once built, would have a "very significant and positive impact" on the availability of sitting dates in Bendigo.
"The precinct will provide three higher jurisdiction courts capable of hearing criminal and civil trials, in addition to Koori Court," Judge Mullaly said.
Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
