Covid And The Courts: 'Grave Concerns' For Justice, Warn Watchdogs - UK Report

OVERVIEW

The inspectorates for policing, prisons, probation and prosecution or the four criminal justice watchdogs for England and Wales have informed that they have " grave concerns" caused by pandemic.

Figures have showcased that there are 54,000 cases which have not yet been heard, which means that crimes from last year will not be able get presented before a jury before 2022.

WHAT ARE THE FINDINGS OF REPORT?

Inspectors have found out the following in their report:

• Criminal courts backlog is 457,000 which is 100,000 more than it was before the pandemic.
• Waiting list of cases which are less serious crimes dealt with in the magistrates’ courts is shortening.
• Number of prisoners on remand waiting for trial also grew representing 15% of prison population.
• Education programmes were reduced to limit coronavirus, despite their important role in rehabilitation.

WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW?

As of today, there are 290 courtrooms believed safe to hold jury trials, but even they cannot be all used at any one time.

The Ministry of Justice clarified that its courts programme is having an effect. Experts predict that delays will still get worse, even though court is taking up plans for recovery.

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