The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) has welcomed several measures in the 2025/2026 national budget aimed at strengthening the justice system.
In a statement following the budget presentation by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, the Association said it supported the proposal to expand court facilities in Chaguanas, Rio Claro, Sangre Grande, and Diego Martin. The LATT said the initiative represents progress toward closing the “access to justice gap” for both legal practitioners and the wider public.
The Association signalled its approval of government’s intention to provide additional support to key criminal justice institutions, including the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Public Defenders’ Department.
According to the LATT statement, the proposed constitutional amendment to enshrine the right to a timely trial could help ensure fairer and more efficient access to justice.
The LATT further acknowledged the plan to expand victim support services to include restitution programmes, job placement assistance, and housing opportunities for victims of crime. It said it looks forward to these measures being implemented for the benefit of the justice system and the national community.
The LATT also noted the proposal to create a new post of Judiciary Chancellor, saying it would reserve comment on the matter until more details are provided.
During his presentation, Minister Tancoo had indicated that the Judiciary Chancellor would serve as an administrative officer responsible for managing case flow, thereby allowing the Chief Justice to concentrate on jurisprudence.
The LATT also reiterated its commitment to engaging constructively with the government and other stakeholders to promote policies that strengthen the rule of law and enhance access to justice in Trinidad and Tobago.
