The flexible courts pilots have been running for approximately seven weeks in the 48 magistrates' courts, as announced on 11 October 2012 by the Ministry of Justice. The Ministry has commissioned Natcen Research to assist in the evaluation of the pilots, and we understand it will soon be commencing work in eight or 10 areas. This extensive research will look at the effects of the pilots on the various agencies, including defence firms.
We have stressed to the Ministry the need for the evaluation to take into account the effects of flexible court hours on defence firms. If any practitioners are approached by Natcen we would urge them to co-operate in this research.
We have not yet been informed of the areas in which they will be working, but will post this information as soon as we are aware.
Give us your feedback
The Law Society is also seeking members' feedback on the effect of the flexible court hours pilots. We are conducting two surveys:
- an ongoing survey of members who are dealing with court cases affected by the pilots - what impact has the pilot had on a particular case?
- a second survey of partners of firms in the pilot areas - the overall effect the pilot has had on how the firm operates, and any problems encountered and any additional costs as a result of the pilot
Please let us know by filling out the surveys below:
Survey for solicitors - cases affected by pilots (Word 68kb)
Survey for partners in pilot areas (Word 86kb)
Completed surveys can be returned via:
Email: tara.chittenden@lawsociety.org.uk
Mail: Tara Chittenden, Research Unit - Room 201, 113 Chancery Lane, London WC2A 1PL
Deadline for submissions is 30 March 2013.