The Bar has issued an access to justice warning after the Ministry of Justice launched an online service for county court claims worth up to £10,000.
The service, which is being piloted for the second time, aims to give small businesses and members of the public an easy-to-understand, speedy route to dispute resolution. An earlier version launched in August 2017 was used by more than 1,400 people with an 80% positive response.
Chair of the Bar, Andrew Walker QC, said: ‘The pilot must be evaluated carefully, and it must not be assumed that lessons learned are necessarily applicable more widely or to more substantial or complex claims.
‘Technology is also very far from being an effective substitute for expert legal advice and representation, particularly for the most vulnerable who need it most. It must not deter those in need from seeking advice, or detract from its value, including in ensuring that weak claims are kept away from the courts, and weak defences are not pursued.’
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