Chief Judge of County Court issues warning to those posting about trials on social media

The Chief Judge of the County Court has told 3AW there is “no doubt” social media has presented a new challenge when it comes to the administration of justice.

But he’s issued a warning to anybody posting about active cases on social media.

“They need to exercise real care when they are posting comments, with respect to criminal trials, which might have a tendency to interfere with the administration of justice,” His Honour Chief Judge Peter Kidd said.

Press PLAY below to hear his warning

Despite how people feel about certain cases, Chief Judge Kidd said the presumption of innocence was a fundamental human right.

“It is the bedrock principle to our criminal justice system,” he said.

“The state brings charges, not private individuals. It is the state that brings charges.”