Law courts’ volunteers thanked

THEY’RE the volunteers who help to make going to court less intimidating for hundreds of people every year.

Last week a special brunch held at the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court celebrated the area’s Court Network volunteers, a group of eight locals who play a vital role in the operation of the legal system.

Known as The Networkers, many are retirees from professions like nursing and teaching, and they give their time each week to assist those who may be navigating court for the first time, including vulnerable people going through the family law courts.

“It can be deeply stressful and intimidating so the Court Networkers are a godsend,” said Victoria Law Foundation executive director Lynne Haultain.

Volunteer Court Networker of 21 years, retired palliative care nurse Jeanette, encouraged anyone interested in joining their team to identify their area of interest, visit the Ballarat court complex and sit through some hearings.

“People are very grateful for the support you give them,” she said.

“It is interesting, but the information you get from people, you [need to] let go… There’s a lot of sadness.”

In regional and metropolitan courts across Victoria, volunteers like Ballarat’s Networkers fill critical gaps in the justice system at the point where law meets life, explaining basics like court room etiquette, layout and procedure.

They quietly attend court to support people through complex, sometimes stressful and isolating experiences, in both the family law court and criminal court jurisdictions.

The Court Network, in partnership with Volunteering Victoria and the Victoria Law Foundation hosted last Thursday’s brunch at Ballarat Magistrates’ Court, celebrating both Victorian Law Week and National Volunteer Week.

Court Network executive director Kate Cahill said the event was a chance to recognise the often unseen contribution of the volunteers.

“Every day, Court Network volunteers help people feel safer, more informed and less alone in what can be an overwhelming environment,” Cahill said.

“This event is about celebrating their impact and the important role they play in strengthening access

o justice in communities like Ballarat.”