Our work with Her Majesty's Courts Service

On this page:

Criminal Justice: Simple, Speedy, Summary (CJSSS)
CJSSS in the youth courts
Streamlined Process
Listing practices

Criminal Justice: Simple, Speedy, Summary

CJSSS is implemented nationally. It has created an environment where it is expected that hearings will be effective.

We monitor efficiency through Her Majesty's Courts Service data collection exercises.

Data are shared with Local Criminal Justice Boards and the LSC, and action is taken where target timescales are not met.

Specific targets aim to deliver:

a reduction in the number of hearings from the current average of five to an expectation of one (for guilty pleas) and two (for contested cases)
simple cases taking on average between one day to six weeks from charge to disposal, as opposed to the current system which averages 21 plus weeks.

CJSSS in the youth courts

CJSSS is being implemented throughout England and Wales in the youth courts.

Local implementation teams are formed from the successful CJSSS teams. This includes engagement with the defence.

Streamlined process

The streamlined process is the servicing of a summary of Advance Information and is being rolled out nationally by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

We are working with the CPS to ensure the defence are fully engaged and their needs are taken into account.

Our peer reviewers are also involved and ensure the process is compatible with peer review.

Feedback from solicitors and peer reviewers has led to adjustments to guidance.

Magistrates court listing practices

Making sure guidance is followed

The Crime Policy Team is working with Her Majesty's Courts Service nationally to ensure that listing practice follows existing guidance.

Work with local courts will follow once the national approach has been agreed.

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Last updated: 21 November 2008