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19 March, 2020 Open access

HMCTS issues new guidance on how it will use telephone and video technology during the coronavirus outbreak

Guidance also advises that the Senior President of Tribunals is preparing Practice Directions to permit the maximum use of paper determinations and remote hearings where appropriate

HMCTS has issued new guidance on how it will use telephone and video technology during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

Introducing the new guidance, HMCTS says -

'Running our courts and tribunals is an essential public service. Audio and video technology has long played a part in the justice system and can now provide particular support during the coronavirus outbreak. We will make as much use of our current technologies as possible, and are working urgently to increase our capacity, so we can keep our courts and tribunals running smoothly.'

Highlighting that the decision as to how a tribunal hearing is conducted is a matter for the judge, the guidance says that, in determining how best to uphold the interests of justice, the judge should consider issues such as - 

NB - the guidance also advises that the Senior President of Tribunals is preparing Practice Directions to permit the maximum use of paper determinations and remote hearings where appropriate.

For more information see HMCTS telephone and video hearings during coronavirus outbreak from gov.uk