⚖️ Chief Justice Ramsay-Hale calls for new courthouse

Chief Justice Margaret Ramsay-Hale has publicly appealed to politicians for the construction of a new courthouse. During the formal opening of the Grand Court, she highlighted the numerous challenges faced due to the "unpleasant and unsuitable conditions" of the current court building. Despite several capital projects planned in the current budget cycle, there are no funds allocated for a new court building. The Chief Justice emphasized the importance of a new courthouse for the efficient functioning of the judiciary and the preservation of its independence. 🏦

Ramsay-Hale pointed out the inadequacies of the current court building, including insufficient facilities for witnesses and lawyers, small jury rooms, and unsuitable jury boxes. She also noted the lack of suitable custody courts in the building. The Chief Justice expressed her disappointment that the budget's "ambitious capital projects" did not include a new, modern courthouse. She stressed the need for proper courts, especially considering the Cayman Islands' status as a premier financial jurisdiction hosting trials involving high-profile lawyers and their billionaire clients. 🏛️

Despite the limitations of the current courthouse, built in the 1970s, the judiciary has been making do with what is available. The Chief Justice welcomed the budget allocation for an additional criminal court judge to help keep cases moving. However, she reiterated her plea for a new courthouse, stating that the current conditions were "unpleasant and unsuitable." In the interim, the Judicial Administration will attempt to retrofit the main courthouse, which Ramsay-Hale described as "an iconic building" that everyone wants to preserve. ⚖️