Court Case Backlogs 2024-05-14
2024-05-14
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Carmichael asked about the potential impacts of case backlogs in criminal and civil courts.
What recent assessment has been made of the potential implications for policies due to the case backlog in criminal and civil courts?
We remain committed to reducing outstanding case loads. We have extended Nightingale courtrooms, allocated £220 million for modernisation and repair, and funded unlimited sitting days including 107,700 in the recent financial year.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific assessment of policy implications due to backlogs
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Carmichael questioned the acceptability of a backlog of 1,954 criminal cases in local magistrates courts.
What would the Secretary say to Members whose local magistrates court had 1,954 criminal cases waiting at the end of December 2023? Is such a backlog acceptable?
Case loads in magistrates courts are lower than during the pandemic, but there's pressure in Crown courts. We will invest more resources: Nightingale courts, judges, legal aid to recover the system while holding fast to principles.
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Assessment & feedback
Acceptability of 1,954 case backlog in magistrates court
Scotland'S Snp Government Stance On Jury Trials
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Vara asked about the progress of virtual court hearings introduced during his tenure.
Will the Lord Chancellor update the House on the progress of virtual hearings for cases?
Virtual hearings were introduced effectively. Remote hearings are now default for bail applications, and a Bill will amend legislation to allow remote hearing in appropriate cases.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy