Chief Magistrate Notes Frustration With DPP Not Bringing Case Files To Court

By Alric Lindsay

Today, August 4, 2025, the Chief Magistrate voiced her dissatisfaction with Crown Counsel from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for arriving at proceedings of the Summary Court without case files. The discussion raised questions about court list management and communication between the Crown and the court staff.

The Chief Magistrate emphasised to DPP Crown Counsel that there is a shared responsibility between the Crown and the court staff in ensuring that the correct matters are listed and communicated effectively. Regarding the accuracy of the court list, the Chief Magistrate said that since DPP Crown Counsel sits in court and makes notes about upcoming cases, DPP Crown Counsel should be fully aware of what matters are expected to be heard in court on relevant dates. Concerning this, DPP Crown Counsel should bring the relevant files to court on the relevant dates. Where there are discrepancies between the court list and the DPP’s records, the DPP should update the court staff.

While DPP Crown Counsel attempted ro defend herself in court by saying the DPP relies on the list printed by the Summary Court, the Chief Magistrate said that it is not proper for the court staff to bear the entire burden of list management and the Crown should be proactive in pointing out any discrepancies or missing cases instead of solely depending on the court staff.

When the DPP Crown Counsel forgets to bring files to court, it results in wasted court time and delays for all parties involved.

It is hoped that the DPP will make improvements in this area to help with the efficiency of the court process.

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