As the prime minister addressed the nation this week and revealed new safety measures to delay the spread of Covid-19, businesses providing social engagements such as pubs, restaurants and theatres closed across the country.  It is imperative that every business and organisation play their part and  reduce the spread of the virus by following the latest guidance from the government on how to respond to COVID-19.

Given the rapidly evolving situation, COVID-19 will have a significant impact on the operation of every organisation, therefore it is imperative for us to briefly assess whether the spread of the virus will significantly affect our Justice System, given that the administration of justice is of vital importance in the UK.

At present, the courts and tribunal services continue to operate as usual and  they have confirmed that any adjustments to individual hearings will be communicated directly to those affected by email and/or phone.

The Courts and Tribunals Judiciary, Ministry of Justice and Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunal Services (HMCT) are all working closely together to successfully maintain the  operation of the courts and tribunal services. They have provided strict guidelines for all court and tribunal users, which includes those attending for jury service, defendants, professional courts users and justice system partners. Hygiene is now their main priority and they have insured that all buildings are cleaned thoroughly every day.

“Coming to court or tribunal during the coronavirus outbreak”

• Stay at home if you have either:
• a high temperature – you feel hot to touch on your chest or back
• a new, continuous cough – this means you’ve started coughing repeatedly
• Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital.
• You do not need to contact 111 to tell them you’re staying at home.
• Read the guidance on households with possible COVID-19 infection and guidance on social distancing and protecting older people and vulnerable adults

HMCT priorities in managing response to coronavirus

• Maintain access to justice
• Support decisions and directions made by the judiciary
• Play our part in the cross-government and justice system-wide plans to deliver key services, protect the public and maintain confidence in the justice system
• Support court sittings and answer public enquiries
• Minimise disruption
• Work with partners and stakeholders to deliver priorities
• Monitor and subsequently manage any arrears of work that could accumulate in the worst-case scenario

What if  coronavirus outbreak escalates?

The HMCT has reassured the public that should coronavirus outbreak escalate “they do have a flexible system – and a flexible workforce – designed to ensure that access to justice can be maintained”.

Lord Chief Justice has confirmed that, “the immediate aim is to maintain a service to the public, ensure as many hearings in all jurisdictions can proceed and continue to deal with all urgent matters. There is an urgent need to increase the use of telephone and video technology immediately to hold remote hearings where possible.