Overview

This bill aims to introduce online procedures for various courts and tribunals in England and Wales, including civil, family, employment, and First-tier and Upper Tribunals. It seeks to make court processes more accessible and efficient through the use of digital technologies while ensuring fairness and support for those lacking digital access.

Description

The bill establishes an Online Procedure Rule Committee to create and oversee Online Procedure Rules. These rules will govern how specified types of proceedings are initiated and conducted online, covering aspects like initiating cases electronically, conducting hearings online, and resolving disputes digitally. The bill ensures that individuals can opt out of online procedures and receive necessary support if they lack digital skills. Different rules can be made for various types of cases, and the bill allows for flexibility in transferring cases between different courts or tribunals as needed.

Key Features:

• Establishment of an Online Procedure Rule Committee.
• Creation of Online Procedure Rules for specified types of proceedings.
• Provision for support for digitally excluded individuals.
• Option for parties to opt out of online procedures.
• Flexibility to adapt the rules and transfer cases between different courts/tribunals.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. However, it mandates the Lord Chancellor to provide appropriate and proportionate support for digitally excluded individuals to access online court procedures. This implies some level of government expenditure on training, resources and technology to support this initiative.

Groups Affected

• Citizens using courts and tribunals: May experience more efficient and accessible legal processes, but also potentially face challenges if digitally excluded.
• Judges and court staff: Will need to adapt to new online procedures and potentially receive training.
• Legal professionals: Will need to adapt their practices to incorporate online procedures.
• Digitally excluded individuals: Will require support to participate in online court processes, and the bill ensures this support will be provided.

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