Magistrates' courts get digital upgrade

Magistrates' courts will be fitted with digital presentation technology, as part of a plan to bring criminal proceedings up to date.

Throughout September, some 21 magistrates' courts around the country will be fitted with the technology, before a national roll-out in England and Wales commences over the next year.

The scheme, which is being delivered through the Criminal Justice System efficiency programme, will see 'ClickShare' technology being installed in courts.

This will allow for defence and prosecution teams, and court officials, to share high-quality digital material via a device such as a tablet which is connected wirelessly to a large TV screen.

It is hoped it will make sharing and presenting evidence simpler and clearer for defendants, victims, witnesses, and the public.

Thames magistrates' court in east London is the first court to have the technology fitted, but further work will be carried out at the initial 21 sites over the coming weeks.

In the long term, the Government wants to see criminal courts working digitally within two years.

Copyright Press Association 2014