Remote hearings improve justice access for victims

Victims will benefit from a revolutionary pilot programme that enables judges to hear cases from across the country, significantly speeding up the judicial process. The new technology facilitates the digital transfer of court cases, allowing them to be heard remotely, thus redistributing resources and alleviating the backlog that has plagued many courts. This initiative aims to spare victims the distress of prolonged delays while upholding the principles of fairness and access to justice.

The programme, which was pioneered in London and the North-East, has garnered attention for its ability to bring judges, defendants, lawyers, court staff, and witnesses together in one virtual space, regardless of their physical location. This innovative approach ensures that participants still retain the right to request a face-to-face hearing with a judge if they prefer.

Courts Minister Sarah Sackman KC MP remarked, “The criminal justice system we inherited was on the brink of collapse. Hearings were cancelled at the last minute and victims have faced unacceptable delays. We are pulling every lever to change this and deliver justice for victims.” She added, “This transformational pilot harnesses the power of technology to connect courts across the country, making better use of resources and changing how justice is delivered for victims.”

With tens of thousands of remote and hybrid hearings being conducted monthly across England and Wales, the reforms are considered a major advancement towards a modernised court system that meets the demands of the digital era. The pilot programme aligns with the latest guidance from the Lady Chief Justice, with plans for future expansion hinging on thorough evaluation and approval from judicial authorities.

The Ministry of Justice remains at the forefront of this technological revolution, continuously investing in video technology to enhance accessibility for remote hearings and bolster support for vulnerable witnesses. Additionally, collaborative efforts with the National Police Chiefs' Council and the Crown Prosecution Service are set to expand the use of live video links for police witness evidence, further optimising police resources.

This expansion of remote hearings coincides with the return of the Courts and Tribunals Bill to Parliament, where the Government plans to amend the Bill to safeguard the right to jury trials, ensuring that nearly all Crown Court cases are still conducted with a jury present.