The College is proud to announce that Matthew Weatherson, our Judicial Information Advisor, has received the 2023 AIJA Award for Excellence in Judicial Administration for his groundbreaking work on the College’s judicial precedent builders. This prestigious award, presented biennially, is given to individuals who have notably improved access to justice, demonstrated innovation, and delivered tangible benefits to the justice system.
Matthew's innovative development of the judicial precedent builders has significantly streamlined the process of preparing jury directions. These tools leverage document automation software to enhance both our Civil and Criminal Charge Books, and decision templates for the Magistrates' Court criminal division.
The AIJA’s selection panel, supported by a distinguished council of judicial leaders from across Australasia, commended Matthew’s initiative for its innovation and for delivering real benefits for the justice system. The precedent builders simplify the complex process of preparing jury directions through a questionnaire that aids judicial officers in identifying key facts of trials or hearings, and customising relevant model jury directions or decision templates for each specific case.
Justice Andrea Tsalamandris described the judicial precedent builders as “transformative,” highlighting their ease of use, time-saving efficiency, and adaptability for specific cases.
Matthew's work in developing these precedent builders reflects the College's commitment to innovation and excellence in judicial education. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Matthew on this outstanding achievement and thank him for his significant contributions to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of our justice system.
Judicial officers can explore our judicial precedent builders, which includes video demonstrations. Access to this resource page requires you to be logged in to our website.