The Ministry of Justice has released its consultation outcome on Open Justice, following a comprehensive Call for Evidence conducted between May and September 2023.
The initiative sought insights from legal professionals, the judiciary, media representatives, businesses, academics, and the general public to explore how the government can uphold and enhance transparency in the justice system.
The responses reaffirmed the critical role of open justice in maintaining public trust in the legal system. A central theme was the necessity of ensuring justice is not only served but is seen to be served. Respondents emphasized that accessibility to legal processes and public understanding of the justice system are fundamental principles underpinning the rule of law.
The consultation gathered valuable insights across several areas, including:
- Access to Courts and Tribunals – Ensuring that the public and media can observe legal proceedings in a way that is clear and effective.
- Remote Observation and Broadcasting – Evaluating how digital advancements can enhance transparency while maintaining procedural fairness.
- Single Justice Procedure – Considering reforms to improve accountability in cases handled by a single magistrate.
- Access to Court Documents and Information – Addressing the balance between privacy, security, and public interest.
- Data Access and Reuse – Exploring ways to make court data more available and usable without compromising confidentiality.
This report summarises the responses to the Call for Evidence. The insights shared by respondents will inform the Department’s policies to modernise and improve the transparency of the justice system, ensuring it upholds the rule of law.
The findings from this consultation will guide future policies aimed at modernising the justice system. The Ministry of Justice intends to use these insights to enhance transparency, ensuring that the legal system remains fair, accessible, and aligned with contemporary needs.
