The government has announced a major overhaul of the criminal courts aimed at delivering “swift and fair justice”. The criminal court reforms are intended to tackle the crisis of delay in the delivery of justice. Plans of action are aimed at increasing the number of cases that can be heard and strengthening support for those affected by crime.
Investment in victim and witness services
Court case backlog is not news to us, but the number announced is still considerable. There are currently 80,000 Crown Court cases still waiting to be heard. It could reach 100,000 without action. The delays caused are damaging public confidence in our justice system. Many victims have to wait three or four years for their cases to reach trial. And it is not a surprise that a significant number lose faith and withdraw from the process entirely.
Quite considerably, a £550 million investment in victim and witness services over the next three years is the central part of the plans. This money is intended to fund help and support, counselling and specialised services. It has a particular focus on survivors of domestic abuse, rape and other serious sexual offences. This is based on research showing that victims are far more likely to see their case through to the end when they receive consistent support. This would hopefully help for more offenders being held accountable.
What impact will the reforms have?
The reforms will help to cut down waiting time, provide a clearer sense of what to expect for victims and witnesses. However, we cannot ignore the fact that the push for speed may put pressure on defence practitioners, who will need early disclosure and adequate time to prepare cases. We are hoping the government’s funding for legal aid and new pupillages will help to support the legal profession in the criminal sector, and to bring the reforms to thrive.
For the public, it means faster hearings, better-supported victims, and more consistent outcomes. The government also plans to increase the number of Crown Court sitting days so judges can hear more cases. To modernise the courts, (which is urgently needed for a long time), there will be long-term investment in court buildings and digital systems, finally. The current conditions of the courts and dated technologies causes delays and make last-minute adjournments unfeasible. The workforce in this sector has also been under strain for years. The shortages of judges, staff and barristers will be a long-term task to rebuild.
The reforms are much needed. If it is successful, it could reduce long-standing delays and help to rebuild public trust. It is not going to happen overnight, but it is a starting point to a faster, fairer and more supporting system for all who are depending on it.
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