LONDON (Within The Law) - The courts will be exempt from new lockdown restrictions coming into force throughout November as the government attempts to reduce the mounting backlog of cases.
In guidance published on Saturday evening, after the prime minister had addressed the nation confirmed that the courts will be among the public services kept open. Anyone required to attend court will be permitted to leave home for the purpose.
The work of the courts and tribunals will also be exempt from the measures.
The first nationwide lockdown had a drastic impact on the legal system in the UK with a backlog of 500,00. According to some estimates, it could take more than two years to get back to normal
In a message the Lord Chief Justice and Senior President of Tribunals said:
“It is vital for the well-being of the country that the administration of justice continues to operate. The legal profession, the parties, jurors, witnesses, judges, magistrates and court staff are all key workers, vital to the continued running of the courts and tribunals in this proposed period of renewed significant restrictions. ‘Our experience since March has left us much better prepared. HMCTS will continue to follow and implement public health advice to reduce risk.”
However, the advice is still that where it is possible to work from home people should try to do so. As such virtual hearings and work from home measures are likely to continue for the majority of the legal profession at least into December.
(Written by Tom Cropper, Edited by Klaudia Fior)