Summary
The UK government plans to remove limits on the number of days courts can operate to help reduce a backlog of 80,000 criminal cases. Justice Secretary David Lammy announced the change, which will allow Crown Courts in England and Wales to hear as many cases as needed next year. Additional reforms, including the use of artificial intelligence, are also being considered to tackle delays in the justice system.
Key Facts
- The UK will lift limits on court sitting days to address a backlog of 80,000 criminal cases.
- All Crown Courts in England and Wales will receive funding to handle as many cases as possible next year.
- Justice Secretary David Lammy announced proposed reforms to include more artificial intelligence in the justice system.
- The Criminal Bar Association views this move as a crucial step but emphasizes the need to hire more barristers and solicitors.
- The UK government will increase funding for courts and tribunals to £2.7 billion next year.
- The justice system backlog started before the current government, but delays have continued to increase.
- The December announcement included plans to scrap jury trials for crimes with potential sentences under three years.
- Critics argue ongoing reforms might eventually end jury trials, while supporters see the changes as necessary for efficiency.
