Sheffield Crown Court reduces number of hearings in the wake of virus outbreak

The Lord Chief Justice suspended new jury trials at crown courts on Monday, March 23, as a safety precaution alongside measures including arrangements to use telephone, video and other technology at as many hearings as possible.

Sheffield Crown Court was operating on Monday with seven scheduled criminal court rooms sitting but this was reduced to three scheduled courts sitting on Tuesday, March 24.

This has been further reduced to one sitting today, Wednesday, March 25, and with only one sitting tomorrow, Thursday, March 26, with an additional court to sit as a magistrates' court.

Sheffield Crown Court began to use remote video technology on Tuesday, March 24, with prosecuting and defence barristers and counsel working remotely from elsewhere but communicating online into court proceedings.

During certain hearings in one court, only a judge, a court clerk, an usher and the probation service were physically present to oversee matters. Representations and discussions from prosecuting and defence counsel were made remotely via video link during these public hearings.

Defendants in custody were also made privy to hearings via video links but this can be common practice for those remanded.

Sheffield Magistrates' Court has also been observing safety guidelines with social distancing enforced between those in court with ushers wearing gloves and avoiding passing paperwork where possible.

The number of scheduled hearings at Sheffield Magistrates' Court appears to have been reduced by comparison with previous weeks but yesterday, Tuesday, March 24, there was no sign of any immediate plans for the magistrates' court to introduce remote digital procedures.

The Government HM Courts and Tribunal Service stated it is essential courts and tribunals continue to administer justice but practices have been adjusted with steps to minimise risks to the judiciary, staff, professional and the public.

Anyone with confirmed or possible coronavirus (COVID-19) infection or who needs to self-isolate in line with NHS advice, should contact the court or tribunal in which any relevant hearing is due to take place.