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UK Courts Crumbling: Justice Delayed for Thousands
5 Jan
Summary
- Over 79,000 criminal cases are backlogged in England and Wales.
- Some victims and defendants face multi-year waits for trials.
- One in three criminal barristers are seeking to leave the profession.
The criminal justice system in England and Wales is currently facing a severe crisis, evidenced by a backlog exceeding 79,000 criminal cases. This immense pressure results in lengthy delays, with some victims and defendants experiencing trial waits that span multiple years. The system's deterioration is further highlighted by issues such as leaky courts and malfunctioning heating systems.
Professionals within the legal system are feeling the strain acutely. Barrister Emma Fielding, who covers cases across the East of England, describes the situation as overwhelming, making it impossible to manage incoming cases or reduce the existing backlog. Her concerns reflect a broader sentiment within the profession.
This pervasive pressure has led to significant consequences, with one in three criminal barristers actively seeking to leave their roles, according to the Criminal Bar Association. The intense workload forces many to cancel holidays and contributes to relationship breakdowns, as 35% of criminal barristers reportedly work seven days a week.
