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Virtual Courts - Virtual Justice?

Camberwell Green Magistrates' Court is currently hosting a virtual courts pilot scheme which started in May 2009. This followed a 12 week pre pilot prototype in July 2007.  The Ministry of Justice claim that the current pilot alone will save approximately £2.2 million, with potential savings rising to £10 million when the scheme is rolled out nationwide.  Frances Ridout asks are Virtual Courts a cost effective disposal or a step too far in simple, speedy and summary justice?

In this article

• What is a Virtual Court?
• When are Virtual Courts Used?
• Do Virtual Courts Actually Save Time and Money?
• Is Justice "Being Seen to be Done"?
• Are Virtual Courts Fair?
• Can the Practical Difficulties be Overcome?
• Conclusions

Download the full article:

• Virtual Courts - Virtual Justice? [Adobe PDF]

This article has been printed in Criminal Law and Justice Weekly and The Young Bar Magazine

25 September 2010

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