Summary
An IT bug in the case-management software used by courts in England and Wales led to missing or incorrect evidence in legal cases. Despite knowing about the problem, HM Courts & Tribunals Service took years to investigate and did not inform judges or lawyers. An internal report suggests the technical issue caused significant concerns about the software's design and handling.
Key Facts
- An IT bug affected case-management software used by courts in England and Wales, causing evidence issues.
- HM Courts & Tribunals Service reportedly knew about the issue but delayed a comprehensive investigation.
- The internal report indicated judges and lawyers were not informed of the problem to avoid potential harm.
- HMCTS said it found no evidence that case outcomes were affected by the technical issues.
- The software involved is used in various court types, including family, civil, and tribunal courts.
- The Social Security and Child Support Tribunal was reportedly the most impacted.
- The software was introduced in 2018 and has reportedly had ongoing problems.
- Concerns have been likened to past scandals involving IT system failures.
