Judge-Only Trials Proposed to Tackle UK Court Backlog
A dramatic overhaul of England and Wales’ criminal justice system has been proposed to cut a record-breaking Crown Court backlog, with nearly 77,000 cases currently waiting for trial. Former judge Sir Brian Leveson says drastic steps like reducing jury trials and settling more cases outside of court are needed to prevent what he calls a "total system collapse." His report suggests new divisions within the courts, increased use of cautions, and judge-only trials for certain non-violent or complex cases like fraud and voyeurism.
Under the proposed plans, defendants facing charges such as stalking, assaulting an emergency worker, or even racially aggravated offences could no longer opt for a jury. While Sir Brian stresses this is about delivering fair, faster justice, critics warn it risks undermining a centuries-old right. "Our jury system is central and pivotal," said Solicitor Advocate Manisha Knights. The Criminal Bar Association is reviewing the proposals, acknowledging the scale of the changes.
The report aims to save 9,000 Crown Court sitting days annually and push more cases to magistrates’ courts or the proposed new court division involving judges and magistrates. The government is expected to respond in full ahead of planned legislation this autumn. “Swifter justice requires bold reform,” said Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood. “I will do whatever it takes to bring down the backlog and deliver swifter justice for victims.”
