A Conversation with the Chief Justice
Media Release of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court
This interview, entitled "A Conversation with the Chief Justice," aims to provide viewers with a thorough understanding of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court's structure. Additionally, it will clarify the court's interaction with other components of the legal system to enhance the transparency and accessibility of justice for all citizens and residents within the OECS subregion.
In this first interview, His Lordship, the Hon. Mr. Mario Michel, the esteemed acting Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, shares insights into his inspiring journey from advocating for youth rights to assuming a pivotal leadership role within the judiciary that spans nine Member States and Territories. The Honourable Chief Justice provides a comprehensive overview of the court system's structure, detailing the various levels, from the foundational Magistrates' Courts to the highest appellate courts that ensure justice is upheld.
During the conversation, Chief Justice Michel elaborates on the meticulous process of appointing a Chief Justice, shedding light on the criteria and considerations underpinning this important selection. He also emphasises the court's commitment to enhancing public comprehension of judicial processes through several innovative initiatives under the Court’s Public Education Campaign. The primary objective of this plan is to uphold the judiciary's core values, including impartiality, independence, integrity, and professionalism, through strategic communication channels encompassing both traditional and social media platforms.
The plan includes the Justice in Schools initiative, which will involve a comprehensive school tour across all Member States and Territories. Furthermore, the plan encompasses training sessions for media personnel, a three-part lecture series, a Mediation and Judicial Settlement Conference Workshop, a debate competition for college and secondary school students, and an animation competition for primary school children. Ultimately, the ECSC's public education plan aims to educate stakeholders at all levels, fostering public trust and confidence in the Eastern Caribbean judiciary.
Please visit our website, Facebook page, and the media for further updates about the ECSC’s Public Education Programme.
About the ECSC
The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) was established in 1967 by the West Indies Associated States Supreme Court Order No. 223 of 1967. The ECSC is a superior court of record for the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), including six Independent States: Antigua and Barbuda, the Commonwealth of Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines; and three British Overseas Territories: Anguilla, The Virgin Islands, and Montserrat. The Court has unlimited jurisdiction in each Member State and Territory.
To learn more about the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, please visit our website at www.eccourts.org or call us at 758-457-3600.
