Many FLPA members were thrilled to be a part of the swearing in of the newest Court Dog, Leo, to join the Brisbane Registry of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 1) and the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 2), at a very special ceremony at the Harry Gibbs Commonwealth Law Courts Building in Brisbane in October.
In front of many admirers, Leo ‘signed’ his oath with his paw print and is a now officially a part of the Courts’ National Court Dog Program.
Leo, (as well as his cuddles and gentle eyes), started his work at the Brisbane Registry in early November and is settling in nicely to his new and exciting day job.
Number one on his job description is to help people (especially children) feel more calm, especially vulnerable people when attending Court for court matters.
Leo will also attend the Court building for interviews with children and court child experts.
It appears Leo is learning quickly and giving lots of his love to his new found courtroom friends!
FLPA President Shannon Daykin said FLPA is extremely proud to help bring this outstanding Program to the Brisbane registry.
“The National Court Dog Program has made significant impact to help people, especially children, feel calm when attending court in other states and FLPA is honoured to have been asked to assist to make this Program a reality in Brisbane,” Shannon said.
“We’re really excited to have Leo as a part of the FLPA family,” Shannon said.
FLPA was proud to fund the costs of purchasing Leo, alongside the Queensland Law Society who contributed funds towards Leo’s handler.
Request for Leo to attend your next court event
If you’d like to request Leo at your court event, you can do so by emailing the Registry, the Chambers of the presiding Judicial Officer, or the Court Children’s Service administration. Just remember though, the Judge, Registrar or Court Child Expert must approve the Court Dog assisting in your court event.
Find out more about the program here. https://www.fcfcoa.gov.au/innovations/fl/court-dog-faq
