‘Routine matters’ to be dealt with by non-judges under new UK government legislation

Under the Courts and Tribunals (Judiciary and Functions of Staff) Bill, appropriately qualified and experienced court and tribunal staff - authorised by the judiciary, and working under judicial supervision – will be allowed to deal with routine matters.

This new legislation is part of the government’s agenda to modernise the courts and tribunals.

Justice minister Lucy Frazer said: This bill supports our fundamental transformation of the justice system, making courts easier to use, more efficient and fit for the digital age.

“By enabling judges to hear cases in different courts and tribunals and giving court staff powers to deal with routine issues, we will make our courts more efficient and effective, while making better use of taxpayer’s money.

“Our judiciary are highly valued and we want to make sure judges’ time and expertise is being used where and when it is most needed.”

This is the first step in legislation that aims to shift the justice system from paper-based systems to digital services.

The UK government has so far invested £1 billion in reforming and modernising courts.