A recent study by Aberystwyth University examines the potential shift towards online court cases post-COVID.
- The report evaluates the efficiency and accessibility benefits of remote hearings.
- Challenges related to technology and maintaining formality in online settings are discussed.
- The study involved senior lecturers and researchers, highlighting diverse experiences.
- Funded by Wales’ Research Innovation Fund, the study holds significant relevance for the justice system.
In a pioneering study conducted by Aberystwyth University, the landscape of court proceedings in the aftermath of COVID-19 has been meticulously analysed. The report, emerging from thorough research into remote hearings during the pandemic, suggests a conceivable shift towards more online court cases. This transition is considered both beneficial and complex, addressing accessibility and efficiency in the judicial system.
Notably, the study highlights potential advantages such as enhanced accessibility and streamlined processes through the use of remote hearings. However, it also cautiously points out the challenges inherent in online settings, including technical hurdles and the risk of informality that might undermine the grave nature of judicial proceedings. The study does not advocate for the routine adoption of remote hearings purely for cost-saving purposes, acknowledging the nuanced balance required in administering justice effectively.
The researchers involved in this study bring a wealth of expertise from various fields. Leading the investigation is Dr. Catrin Fflur Huws, who, along with her team, has extensively explored the implications of remote hearings on different types of cases, ranging from family to criminal cases. The participation of distinguished academics such as Dr. Rhianedd Jewell and Dr. Hanna Binks enriches the study with insights from translation studies and psycholinguistics, adding layers of depth to the evaluation.
Key aspects of the research involve understanding the technological requisites for conducting virtual hearings, the use of interpreters, and the challenges in assessing non-verbal cues and establishing rapport in a digital environment. These factors are crucial in determining whether the benefits of remote court cases outweigh the potential drawbacks.
This vital research, funded by the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales’ Research Wales Innovation Fund, is a timely contribution to the ongoing debate regarding the future of court systems in a digital age. By providing these insights before the re-establishment of pre-COVID routines, the study opens the door to progressive discussions about the judicial system’s evolution.
The study by Aberystwyth University urges a careful consideration of online court hearings’ future amidst evolving judicial landscapes.
