A process change has been implemented.
The New Zealand government has introduced an operational process change to enhance the visibility of dependent children of defendants in the criminal court. Minister for Courts Nicole McKee announced the development, which was jointly created by the Judiciary and Ministry of Justice with support from various stakeholders across the Justice Sector.
According to Mrs. McKee, the improvements include modifications to forms used by Defence Counsel and agencies to capture information about dependent children. Targeted communications have also been sent out highlighting the importance of bringing this information to the court's attention. Updated Court forms will enable the Judiciary to record this information, supporting bail and sentencing decisions.
The changes aim to prevent cases like Malachi Subecz's in 2021, where a five-year-old was murdered by his caregiver while his mother was in prison. Dame Karen Poutasi stated that Malachi was "unseen" at key moments when he needed to be visible. The new process seeks to ensure the children of defendants are visible and their interests considered by the Court.