'It's essential we keep public participation in the justice system.'
Chair of @thebarcouncil.bsky.social, @kirstybrimelow.bsky.social on why jury trials shouldn't be curtailed & how to really fix the courts backlog.
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Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare MP Gerald Jones met with barrister Alex Greenwood (Apex chambers) and other barristers at Merthyr Crown and magistrates’ courts.
Discussions centred around how limiting jury trials will do nothing to bring down the backlog. Several made the point that if the backlog is the supposed justification for the change, it has even less of a standing in Wales as the backlog is far lower than in areas in England.
They also discussed how access to justice has been reduced for some communities in Wales as at least 27 courts have closed since 2010.
Thanks to Gerald Jones MP for his time and to the barristers at court for sharing their views.
In response to today's King's speech, Chair of the Bar Council Kirsty Brimelow KC has emphasised our opposition to restricting jury trials, called for more investment for the justice system and welcomed plans to reset UK-EU relations.
Our full reaction ➡️ https://bit.ly/4wp4mUG
Today we are hosting MPs in courts across England and Wales to hear about the issues affecting the criminal justice system as part of our #JusticeNeedsJuries campaign.
First stop Merthyr Tydfil👇
We are collecting examples of these delays to illustrate the impact on the trial process.
Please fill out the form for each experience 👇 www.barcouncil.org.uk/media-campai...
This #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek, it's important to recognise that good wellbeing starts during pupillage.
We're resharing this piece from Counsel Magazine, written by our current Young Barristers' Committee Chair Amelia Clegg and former Chair Lachlan Stewart.
Up in Newcastle, leader of the North Eastern Circuit Caroline Goodwin KC and barrister Lorraine Mustard welcomed MPs Liz Twist and Catherine McKinnell.
Inefficiencies caused by prisoner delays, the forensic science service and lack of court staff were among the topics discussed.
Over in Croydon, Allan Compton KC (left) and William Hughes KC (right) met with MP for Sutton and Cheam Luke Taylor (middle)
Conversations centred around the jury reforms and the significant delays caused by late delivery of those in custody to the court room.
@luketaylorld.bsky.social
