The use of customary law in the criminal justice system

Abstract

The question of how best to approach the problem of accommodating customary law and practice within the framework of enacted or judicially interpreted law has exercised for a long time the Australian authorities at all levels. This workshop addresses the use of customary law for crime prevention and within the criminal justice system. Participants further discuss the crime situation and Aboriginals, crimes and the courts in customary areas, conflict of systems, customary law and magistrates, customary law and legal aid, village courts and special tribunals, customary law and informal social controls.

1-5 March 1976

Contents

  • Foreword

Part I

  • Opening remarks

    The Honourable R.J. Ellicott
  • The use of customary law for crime prevention

    W. Clifford
  • The use of customary law for crime prevention and control

    His Excellency the Honourable Sir John Kerr
  • Keynote address: The use of customary law in the criminal justice system

    The Honourable Sir Sydney Frost
  • Commentary on keynote address

    Professor R.S. O'Regan

Part II

  • Summary of discussions

    W. Clifford

Part III

  • Submissions by participants

Appendix

  • List of participants