April 20, 2020

The figures set out in the Guidance are reported by individual courts and tribunals and provide an indicative estimate of the number of hearings that have taken place using audio and video technology in HMCTS since 19 March 2020. The Guidance notes that as the figures are based on operational reports from individual courts and tribunals during a period of intense urgent activity, HMCTS cannot verify their accuracy. Consequently, it says, they should be interpreted with great care.

In addition, this form of data collection will soon be replaced as HMCTS begins to capture data on hearings conducted with the use of remote video or audio technology in other ways.

The figures show that:

• on 6 April 2020 around 85% of cases heard in England and Wales used audio and video technology;
• between 19 March and 6 April 2020, courts and tribunals reported that the use audio in hearings increased from around 100 to around 1850; and
• between 19 March and 6 April 2020, courts and tribunals reported that the use video in hearings increased from around 150 to around 1100.

To access the Guidance, click here.