Lexis®Library update: HMCTS noted that successful recovery in magistrates’ courts in Wales is evidenced by the 'outstanding' caseload which has mostly returned to pre-pandemic levels. In addition, Welsh magistrates’ courts are holding more in-person hearings, with HMCTS confirming that domestic abuse work, youth cases and COVID-related offences, are all being listed without any delay.
Strong progress has also been recorded in the Crown Courts, with HMCTS noting that, by December 2020, 75% of Crown Court rooms were accommodating jury trials. HMCTS also noted that the challenges of holding trials involving multiple participants has been handled effectively thanks to physical changes being made at Crown Courts, for example, installation of screens in the dock and well of courts.
It was stressed that effective working relationships with partners such as the Criminal Justice in Wales Board are ‘essential to continuing our recovery progress into the next 12 months’, and HMCTS committed to making plans to enhance and formalise such partnerships across the Welsh criminal justice system in 2021–2022.
Source: Our story so far: criminal court recovery in Wales
This content was first published by LNB News / Lexis®Library, a LexisNexis® company, on 11 May 2021 and is published with permission. Further information can be found at: www.lexisnexis.co.uk.
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