Jury trials have resumed at a further five courts, bringing the total up to 16
Meanwhile, the Criminal Bar Association (CBA) is polling its members amid concerns ministers could authorise temporary changes to jury laws so they can make headway on the backlog of cases that have built up. The Lord Chief Justice, Lord Burnett told the Justice Select Committee this week that the idea of suspending juries for less serious cases is being seriously considered and legislation could be passed within weeks.
CBA chair Caroline Goodwin QC told criminal barristers this week: ‘The principle of trial by jury is sacrosanct, there may be those who seek to force upon us imminent change.
‘The use of a judge and two magistrates dealing with triable either way offences would be a change for the worse.’
