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Courts (Remote Hearings) Bill - Sitting 1

15 May 2024

Proposing MP
Derek Twigg Lab
Widnes and Halewood
Type
Public Bill Committee

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement discusses amendments to legislation that would allow defendants and debtors in specific types of cases to appear remotely via live audio or video links. The discussion centres around the Courts (Remote Hearings) Bill which allows for remote hearings in appropriate cases to enhance the administration of justice. The statement discusses the Courts (Remote Hearings) Bill, which aims to allow remote hearings for certain types of cases involving breaches of injunctions and non-payment of council tax or business rates.

Action Requested

The Bill proposes changes to enable remote hearings for individuals arrested for breaching certain family court injunctions, as well as persistent defaulters on orders to pay council tax or business rates. It does not mandate remote hearings but provides the option under judicial discretion. The Bill will come into force two months after Royal Assent.

Key Facts

  • Clause 1 amends sections of the Family Law Act 1996, Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, Policing and Crime Act 2009, and Local Government Finance Act 1992.
  • The Bill enables remote hearings for defendants in breach of injunctions and defaulters on council tax or business rates payments.
  • Remote hearings will be available without a lesser degree of access to justice.
  • The Bill does not extend to Scotland.
  • Remote hearings can be used for civil and family proceedings involving sensitive or serious cases.
  • Judges treat individuals attending remotely the same as those present in court when it comes to contempt of court.
  • Interpreters are provided at the judge's discretion for non-English speakers.
  • The Bill extends remote hearings for defendants arrested for breaches of antisocial injunctions or family orders.
  • It allows remote hearings for cases involving non-payment of council tax or business rates.
  • Judges will have discretion to decide on holding a remote hearing based on representations from all parties.
  • Remote hearings aim to enhance public safety by efficiently dealing with potentially violent individuals.
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