It was an invitation from HHJ Paul Hopkins KC, himself a Maesteg man, which led to the privilege of my spending a day at the Family Court in Cardiff.
Warmly welcomed by the Court staff who were wonderfully hospitable, it was an especially interesting experience of another crucial division of our judicial system.
The fundamental purpose of Family Courts are to help solve disagreements between families, plus help protect children and young people who may be at risk of harm. As can be expected, this area of work is usually complex, emotive and distressing, especially when children are involved.
Financial matters between former spouses and protection from abusive relationships are also dealt with. Nevertheless, our young people are the future and they are rightly placed at the forefront of all decision making, as we must do what is unequivocally the best for them.
With such potential emotional traumas in mind, it was immensely reassuring to see Psalm 106:3 in the title of this blog being consistently applied. The absolutely incredible lengths the Family Court, Judges and Officers go to, to ensure all participants are dealt with sensitively and with the greatest of due care and respect was gratifying to view first hand.
Those who find themselves utilising this area of our judicial system, young people and adults alike, should feel reassured - every consideration made in the eyes of the law is unbiased, equitable and applied by highly intellectual and compassionate people.
Diolch yn fawr iawn. Keep up the vital work to your excellent high standards.