Magistrates’ and other Courts will continue to operate throughout the four-week period of lockdown which is due to begin on 5th November 2020. Guidance published on 31st October, after the Prime Minister Boris Johnson had announced new restrictions, confirmed that Courts will stay open. People required to attend court will be able to leave home for the purpose.
In a further message from the senior judges, it was stated that the work of the courts and tribunals will continue to be exempted from lockdown measures.
The judges said: ‘It is vital for the well-being of the country that the administration of justice continues to operate. The legal profession, the parties, jurors, witnesses, judges, magistrates and court staff are all key workers, vital to the continued running of the courts and tribunals in this proposed period of renewed significant restrictions. ‘Our experience since March has left us much better prepared. HMCTS will continue to follow and implement public health advice to reduce risk.’
The message said that Judges and Magistrates must continue to make ‘full use’ of provisions for remote hearings so that cases can be dealt with as soon and as efficiently as possible.
Richard Silver Solicitors will continue to offer a full service throughout the lockdown period, including attendance at Courts and police stations.
Many Court and other systems that we use are now web-based and we are able to work remotely and securely if necessary. We can also offer virtual appointments.
Call us on 0808 231 3908