Dominic Regan is in the mood for change post-Jackson
Reform is addictive. Now that Sir Rupert Jackson has gone back to the Court of Appeal I thought I would follow in his steps and overhaul the civil trial process which is, frankly, a shambles.
The first thing that Sir Rupert did was to go on a fact-finding mission. Tough as it was I emulated him and went to Paris, Venice, the South of France, Paris and Ladies Day at Ascot. For those who sneer may I point out I spent a whole day at the Royal Courts of Justice too. Admittedly, it was because I popped in to use the free toilets and got lost but nevertheless I was there. Here are the lessons I learnt.
Fundamental failings
It was obvious to me that there are fundamental failings inherent within the trial process. The most obvious problem is that trials last too long. Mike Goodridge, clerk at 9 Gough Square, explained to me that counsel is paid for every day spent in court.
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