Justice ministers say virtual courts will speed up justice system
updated on 08 December 2011
Court hearings are becoming swifter and more effective, saving victims, witnesses and the police time through virtual courts and video technology, according to Justice Ministers Nick Herbert and Jonathan Djanology.
The initiative, known as ‘Live links’, allows police witnesses to devote more time to frontline duties by giving evidence in court using video technology at a police station, rather than having to travel to and from court in person. Live links also means that defendants can now be charged at a police station and have their first hearing over secure video link with the magistrates’ court, sometimes within hours of being charged. In the event of a guilty plea, sentencing can also be passed on the same day.
The virtual courts initiative began in May 2009 in London and Kent (which has used the system with 1,400 people and saved over 100 police hours), and is now under expansion. It forms part of a wider policy to digitalise and increase the efficiency of the criminal justice system.
Jonathan Djanology had this to say about the scheme: “The expansion of virtual courts clearly demonstrates the government’s commitment to working with local police and the courts to ensure speedy and effective justice. Not only do they enable the quick resolution of cases, they also save time, as defendants do not need to be transferred between prison and the court.”
