In a momentous move to improve access to justice and enhance judicial efficiency, Guyana’s judiciary is preparing to launch two specialised courts – Mental Health Court and Mobile Court. These initiatives, scheduled to roll out within the first quarter of 2025, underscore the judiciary’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of citizens and addressing key challenges in the administration of justice.
Speaking at the ceremonial opening of the 2025 legal year, acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards described the introduction of these courts as a transformative step.
Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards
“This spells efficiency and access to justice. When we specialise, the specialisation is in mind of bringing closer to the people the particular area of justice, as well as optimising the use of the resources which we have,” she stated.
The Mental Health Court will focus on cases where mental health challenges intersect with the law, ensuring that individuals in such circumstances receive appropriate attention and support. This court will prioritise treatment and rehabilitation over punitive measures, addressing the root causes of offending behaviour.
Justice Cummings-Edwards emphasised the importance of this initiative, noting that mental health concerns are often overlooked in traditional legal proceedings.
“Our Mental Health Court will be rolled out shortly within this period, this quarter, and we intend to address all areas that are needed for specialisation within the judicial system,” she explained.
This development follows significant training for judicial officers, facilitated by international partners such as the United States (US) Embassy and the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).
Officers were trained in mental health-related topics to prepare for the court’s launch. “For this, I would like to thank Jeff Collins of INL in Washington DC and his local counterpart at the US Embassy for making it possible,” Justice Cummings-Edwards added.
The Mobile Court aims to extend the reach of the judiciary by delivering legal services directly to communities in remote and underserved areas. This initiative will reduce the need for residents to travel long distances to access court services, particularly in regions with limited infrastructure.
Justice Cummings-Edwards highlighted the transformative potential of the Mobile Court in bridging the gap between the judiciary and citizens.
“We must meet the needs of a growing society, and justice is the cornerstone in that regard,” she affirmed.
The Mobile Court will be equipped with modern technology to conduct hearings and facilitate case management efficiently, ensuring that justice is dispensed swiftly and fairly.
The introduction of these courts is part of a broader effort by the judiciary to modernise its operations and enhance access to justice. Justice Cummings-Edwards pointed to other recent developments, such as the rollout of the electronic case management system, which has already been piloted in the Diamond Magistrate’s Court on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD), and will soon expand to other courts.
Additionally, the judiciary has invested in public awareness programmes to educate citizens about their rights and the services offered by the courts. These outreach initiatives, which have included engagements with indigenous communities and open days at schools, aim to make the judiciary more transparent and accessible.
Justice Cummings-Edwards also noted the importance of specialist courts in addressing specific needs. The Family Court, Commercial Court, Sexual Offences Court, Land Court, and Juvenile Court are already operational, and the addition of the Mental Health and Mobile Courts will further enhance the judiciary’s ability to address diverse legal issues.
Reflecting on the judiciary’s progress, Justice Cummings-Edwards reiterated its commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and service excellence.
“We are unwavering in our commitment. Growth is a six-letter word which we embrace. It defies gravity, both cultural and magnetic, but we are determined to move upward and achieve growth and excellence in our services,” she added. (G9)
