As we enter the new year we are faced with many uncertainties with rising number of COVID cases including those of the Omicron variant, increasing patient numbers in hospitals and the government imposing stricter restrictions and recommendations on the general public.
Over the last few weeks, many of our clients have been asking the question:
“How are the new increased restrictions going to affect my ongoing court proceedings?”
The Lord Chief Justice and Senior President of Tribunals issued a message concerning the courts’ and tribunals’ work following the announcement of Plan B restrictions by the Prime Minister on 8th December 2021.
The message states:
“The work of courts and tribunals will continue as it has done over the course of the pandemic.
The measures being introduced under Plan B mean that hearings should continue to take place in person alongside effective use of video hearings and remote attendance where that is in the interests of justice.
The coming weeks will bring their difficulties across all jurisdictions both professionally and personally but we have been there before and are equipped to cope.
We are grateful for the efforts of judges, tribunal members, magistrates, the legal profession, HMCTS and Judicial Office staff, and all involved in the justice system over the last two years in support of the administration of justice and we are sure they will continue to do so.”
While the criminal courts in particular have struggled to cope with the impact of the pandemic, the family system seems to have fared somewhat better.
Hearings within the family courts are commonly being held remotely either via telephone or where possible via a video platform with hearings being held in-person only if deemed necessary.
If you need assistance or advice with any current or potential Court applications in the Family Court please contact our expert team today on 01234 889777 for a free consultation.
Hunter and Uro serve Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, and the City of London to help with all you family law matters.