After being charged with assaulting his wife, Antony Catalano was granted permission to skip his physical court appearance, due to ‘mental health’ concerns.

Tom Elliott reacted to the decision made by the judge saying, “the victims of a serious crime want to and need to see justice being done … mental health concerns or otherwise”.

Press PLAY to hear Tom’s full reaction to the decision 

Since the pandemic, an online court system has been established where cases can be heard remotely, involving participants like magistrates, lawyers, and the accused appearing from different locations.

Appearing on 3AW Mornings, criminal barrister and former Victorian Chief Magistrate Nick Papas KC stressed that remote appearances may create a sense of unreality for the accused, making the proceedings feel less consequential.

Press PLAY to hear the risks of online court hearings 

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