Creation of the Unit

The Criminal Justice Unit (CJU), Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Legal Affairs (“AGLA”) was established by Cabinet Note No. AGLA (20)70 dated 15th June 2020 and gazetted on 9th September 2020 via Gazette No. 158 of 2020.

Criminal Justice Sector reform has been a principal issue of much national concern and disquiet requiring the undivided attention of the AGLA. The establishment of the Criminal Justice Unit symbolizes the amalgamation of Criminal Justice reformation efforts under the umbrella of a singular coordinator. This only serves to enhance productivity and innovation in the arena.

Mission Statement

The Criminal Justice Unit is focused on promoting the development of Trinidad and Tobago’s criminal justice system in order to enhance public safety; prevent and reduce the harmful effects of criminal and delinquent behaviour on victims, individuals, and communities; formulate sanctions against offenders that are fair, just, effective and efficient and introduce mechanisms aimed at rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders in order to avoid recidivism and reduce criminality.

Vision Statement

The vision of the Criminal Justice Unit is to transform the justice system so that it reflects the basic constitutional ideals, as well as goals of Government policies on the reconstruction and development of the justice sector.