Resumption of Jury Trials

The Bar welcomes the resumption of jury trials this week in Northern Ireland. The first jury trial since March started in Belfast’s Laganside Court with plans to open more Crown Court venues in September.

Bar Council Chair Sarah Ramsey QC remarked: “Jury trials are essential to our criminal justice system and to the rule of law. We have been working in partnership with all those involved in the delivery of criminal justice in recent months to plan for the safe resumption of this fundamental part of the trial process.

It is very reassuring that efforts to restart jury trials have involved a cautious and planned approach which very much prioritises practical measures to ensure the safety of all those attending court venues.

Undoubtedly the Covid-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the legal and justice system as the Lord Chief Justice consolidated all court business into five venues to deliver urgent business with many hearings using video technology. Throughout the pandemic our barristers have been motivated by a strong sense of duty to continue to serve the administration of justice to the fullest extent possible, adapting to the necessary changes in these unprecedented times. We are continuing to work with stakeholders across the justice system to plan for the graduated increase in court activity in the weeks ahead as we approach the start of the new legal year”.