Delays in providing legal instructions from various ministries are resulting in significant costs for the State, causing it to incur thousands of dollars in court penalties and impacting its credibility in the judiciary.
Solicitor-General Ropate Green has expressed concern that his office frequently struggles to meet the stringent deadlines set by courts due to late or incomplete instructions from client ministries. Courts often operate under tight timelines, some as short as seven days, and when these deadlines are not met, the State faces financial repercussions.
Green noted that judges have expressed their frustration regarding the State’s failure to adhere to these timelines, especially given the expectation for government entities to maintain the highest legal standards. He emphasized that the lack of timely responses leads to discontent within the judicial system, particularly when judges have prior connections to the Attorney General’s Office.
The Solicitor-General underscored the necessity for improved coordination between ministries and his office, stating, “What we are facing at the moment is that we cannot appear in court without instructions from our clients.” He believes enhancing communication between relevant parties will be crucial in safeguarding public funds, ensuring compliance with court directives, and bolstering public trust in the justice system.
This situation presents an opportunity for the government to streamline its processes and create more efficient channels of communication, ultimately benefitting both the judicial system and taxpayers. By addressing these delays proactively, the State can improve its legal standing and enhance the overall integrity of its operations within the judiciary.