Court Network has launched a new telephone service to support court users in the absence of face-to-face services during the coronavirus pandemic.
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Court Network volunteers at courts in Victoria and Queensland stopped working at the end of March when COVID-19 hit.
A calm, gentle and informative voice is so powerful
- Court Network executive director Maya Avdibegovic
The new telephone service operated by Court Network's 500 volunteers will help vulnerable and distressed court users navigate the court system by providing non-legal information and support.
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Court Network executive director Maya Avdibegovic said trained volunteers would be 'only a phone call away' for victims, witnesses, accused, family and friends.
"For many people, going to court can feel like it is the worst possible day in their life," she said.
"A calm, gentle and informative voice is so powerful."
Fifteen Court Network volunteers usually work at the Ballarat Law Courts and will be helping with the new telephone service.
The new telephone support line number is 1800 571 239 and is available Monday to Friday between 9 to 5pm.
Court Network is a not-for-profit community organisation that has run for 40 years in Victorian and Queensland courts.
Federal government funding cuts forced the organisation to withdraw its services from the Family Courts in Melbourne and Dandenong.
Court Network is currently lobbying government to restore its funding.