Investment needed to support criminal justice modernisation

The Law Society of Scotland has said measures passed into law by MSPs today, Tuesday, 7 October, will help to modernise criminal justice, but has called for urgent investment to ensure they work in practice.

The Criminal Justice Modernisation and Abusive Domestic Behaviour Reviews (Scotland) Bill includes changes that were introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic and will become permanent under the new legislation. These include virtual attendance in court, digital reproduction of evidence, electronic signing of documents,  the status of digital documents, and where sheriff court matters should appear in the first instance. Part 2 of the Bill will also introduce a new review process following the death of a partner, ex-partner, or child where abuse is known or suspected.

The Law Society of Scotland provided written and oral evidence to MSPs on Part 1 of the Bill.

Stuart Munro, Convener of the Law Society of Scotland Criminal Law Committee, said: “We are pleased that beneficial changes brought in during the pandemic will become permanent in law. Digital processes alongside the flexibility offered by virtual hearings have had a significant impact in streamlining court procedures as well as helping to improve the experience of people interacting with the courts.

“However, while we are supportive of the legislation, the entire justice system remains under enormous strain. Urgent, across-the-board investment is needed to ensure we have an effective and sustainable justice system that serves the Scottish public over the long term.”