Author's Summary
Justice Secretary David Lammy plans sweeping UK justice reforms this week, restricting jury trials to serious cases like rape and murder to cut massive court backlogs and prioritize victims, though critics fear risks to liberties. (152 characters)
Key Reforms Proposed
Reports indicate jury trials face major restrictions under David Lammy's changes. These aim to address the crown court backlog nearing 80,000 cases, potentially rising to 100,000 by 2028. Reforms draw from Sir Brian Leveson's review, reserving juries for grave offenses while shifting others to judges alone.
Victim Focus and Delays
The Ministry of Justice highlights how delays torment victims, with some trials scheduled into 2030, prompting many to drop cases. Lammy emphasizes placing "victims front and centre," declaring: > We inherited a courts emergency; a justice system pushed to the brink. We will not allow victims to suffer the way they did under the last government.
Specific Changes and Criticism
Juries would handle only rape, murder, manslaughter, and public interest cases; lesser ones go to single judges, possibly even for offenses up to five years' imprisonment. Over 90% of cases already use magistrates without juries. Opposition grows over miscarriage risks and bias concerns, with Tory Robert Jenrick urging focus on departmental order instead of curbing ancient rights.
More News
- Etihad to welcome over 2 million December passengers
- Metallica Turn Etihad Park Into a Hometown Show
- Eugenie sends message to Kate after she and sister Beatrice decline invitation to royal Christmas Carol Concert
- Westminster Abbey | London
- Publication of Honduran election results halted, official says
- IOC Coordination Commission completes first venue visit for French Alps 2030 – where sports heritage meets the future of the Olympic Winter Games
- Kate Middleton’s Brother and Sister-in-Law Attend Her Annual Christmas Carol Service at Westminster Abbey
- In Pictures: The Best Images from Abu Dhabi 2025
- Southeastern says services delayed from Canterbury West to Ashford International halted after train hits tree in Chilham
- Etihad Airways and Condor announce strategic partnership and new Abu Dhabi routes