A pressure group seeking reform of the island’s justice system has applauded a government initiative to compensate people wrongfully convicted by the courts.

The Bermuda Equal Justice Initiative argued that the plan — outlined in last Friday’s Speech to the Throne — represented “an historic milestone” in updates to the judicial system.

The Throne Speech, which outlined the newly elected government’s legislative plans for the coming year, acknowledged that “too many of our laws have not kept pace with modern approaches to the administration of justice”.

It read in part: “There is a need for law reform and the commission charged with advising the Government on these matters will be reinstituted and restored to working order.”

Amendments to laws included a change to the treatment of young people impacted by the criminal justice system, with an increase to the age of criminal responsibility from 8 to 14.

Also in the pipeline is a comprehensive review of the system of legal aid to promote equitable access to justice for all

The Government has also promised the development of a statutory regime for the compensation of people wrongfully imprisoned and convicted.

Referring to that last pledge, the BEJI said: “The Government’s commitment to passing legislation designed to compensate those who have been wrongfully convicted and imprisoned is indeed an historic milestone for our criminal justice system.

“BEJI is extremely grateful to the Government for embracing this initiative, as originally outlined in BEJI’s 2025 General Election platform wish list.

“BEJI stands ready to collaborate with the Attorney-General’s Chambers to draft legislation that ensures a fair minimum compensation schedule based on the number of years wrongfully imprisoned. We support a swift, non-bureaucratic process to securing redress.”

The independent group also applauded government proposals to examine the structure of legal aid — the system that allows defendants to secure legal representation regardless of their means.

The BEJI statement said: “ BEJI believes this amendment will not only promote fairness for defendants but also serve as a valuable investment in Bermuda’s legal profession.

“Young Bermudian lawyers will gain unparalleled mentorship and expertise by working with overseas counsel on cases, thus ensuring that concerns about the disturbingly small number of experienced senior counsel able to conduct complex criminal cases is adequately addressed by affording young Bermudian lawyers an opportunity to work with overseas King’s Counsel early in their careers.

“We look forward to the development of a clear policy outlining how individuals on legal aid can select their counsel. While BEJI acknowledges that selection cannot be without qualifications and limitations, individuals deserve a voice in choosing their counsel.”

In a further show of support, the group welcomed the Government’s commitment to updating the security and defence review.

It stated: “True justice demands independent oversight and transparency. We look forward to learning more about the proposed legislative updates aimed at achieving these goals.

“Justice is not an abstract ideal or a collection of lofty commitments — it must be a lived reality for all Bermudians.

“BEJI looks forward to working collaboratively with the Government and all relevant stakeholders to ensure the Throne Speech legal reforms become legislative and regulatory realities.

“Regardless of the politics of the moment, BEJI will remain steadfast in our pursuit of fairness and equality for all Bermudians. The marathon pursuit for a more fair, equal, and accessible justice system for all continues.”