Friday 4 April 2025

A weekly round-up of the latest news and information about courts and tribunals

Reflecting on the modernisation journey for HMCTS

In our latest Inside HMCTS podcast, Nick Goodwin, Chief Executive and Daniel Flury, Operations Director share their reflections of the Reform Programme and what it means for the justice system going forward.

The programme was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform the way people access and engage with the justice system. Nick and Daniel talk about their appreciation for the support from justice partners and legal professionals over the last few years.

Reform across jurisdictions

Crime Programme Director, Tim Britten reflects on lessons learnt from the modernisation journey in our criminal courts and outlines what’s been achieved, in his latest blog.

Rachel Hunt, Programme Director for Civil, Family and Tribunals shares her thoughts on how services from probate to employment tribunals have modernised and changed under the Reform Programme. She also outlines plans to ensure they will continue to improve in the future.

E-bike and e-scooter policy

To protect the safety of all court users, e-bikes and e-scooters are not allowed to be stored or charged in our court and tribunal buildings.

We will keep this policy under regular review and may adapt these rules following the implementation of the Product Safety and Metrology Bill which will enhance the safety of e-bikes and e-scooters.

Open day at Norwich Combined Court

You’ll have the opportunity to go behind the scenes of just at our open day in Norwich on Thursday 17 April 2025.

You’ll be able to speak with our justice partners, meet a sniffer dog, watch a mock trial, visit the court cells and so much more.

Reform of Local Justice Areas – have your say

A joint consultation between the Government and the Judiciary concerning reform of Local Justice Areas (LJAs) launched this week. There are 75 LJAs across England and Wales which govern where cases in magistrates’ courts can be heard, as well as the organisation of magistrates.

This consultation sets out proposals for a new structure following the removal of LJAs and seeks views on proposed changes to magistrates’ training and leadership arrangements. Although aimed primarily at magistrates in England and Wales, views from others with an interest in the magistracy, as well as from members of the public, are welcome. It’s open until 23 June 2025.

Reporting restriction applications

Under Criminal Procedure Rule Part 6, legal professionals are responsible for notifying media representatives when applying for discretionary Reporting Restriction Orders.

HMCTS has put in place media distribution lists at all Crown Courts, which contain the names of approved journalists and publications who have consented to their email addresses being shared with those applying for reporting restrictions.

When applying for a discretionary Reporting Restriction Order, please contact the admin office at the relevant Crown Court who will provide you with the local media distribution list. You should then send those media representatives your application in advance of hearings.

This will ensure that the media are given the opportunity to consider issues, take instructions and prepare representations, as part of upholding the principle of open justice.

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