Six newly appointed Family Court Associates have been sworn in at ceremonies across the country.

Their appointment was announced by the Attorney General in March.(external link)

The new roles will help reduce the high administrative workload of Family Court judges and ultimately reduce delays experienced by Family Court participants.

Principal Family Court Judge Jacquelyn Moran (pictured left) says the main driver behind the development of Family Court Associates is getting people the support they need in a timely and efficient way.

“My vision is for all services of the Family Court – and all family justice processes – to sit within the broader context of community for children, parents and whānau, recognising that prevention, and individuals and whānau getting the right service or response early can make a significant difference.

“It is my firm belief that Family Court Associates have a hugely impactful part to play in achieving this vision.

“They will be doing a lot of work in the early stages of proceedings but the range of work they will do is wide.

“They will use their skill and knowledge to identify and understand the dynamics of a case and help triage it towards the most effective pathway, whether that be appropriate interventions away from court, or towards a full hearing.

“Family Court Associates will wear gowns and be addressed as your honour to recognise the importance of their position as a judicial officer.

“I am excited about the appointment of our first ever Family Court Associates because I have confidence that they will make this role their own and ensure it is successful and truly makes a difference to those who come to our Court,” Judge Moran says.

Pictured from left to right are: Family Court Associate Mark Tolich, Family Court Associate Rebecca Murphy,

Family Court Associate Johan Niemand, Family Court Associate Rachel Lohrey, Family Court Associate Johanna Robertson

and Family Court Associate Sonya Singh.