De Buurtrechter (The Neighborhood Judge)

VPRO Documentary, directed by Anneloor van Heemstra, produced by Mint Film Office. In De buurtrechter (The Neighborhood Judge), justice takes on an unexpected, human form. In a lively community center in Amsterdam-Venserpolder, judges handle cases involving debts, truancy, and minor criminal offenses—not behind closed doors, but right in the heart of the neighborhood. Here, the judge is not just an arbiter of the law, but also a listener, a connector, and a human being. The setting is informal, yet the rulings are binding and just as legally valid as those in a traditional courtroom. A refreshing perspective on justice, where the person behind the offense takes center stage. Sound Editor & Re-recording Mixer: Erik Griekspoor