Administrative Justice Council Seeks Evidence on Digital Reforms to Address Tribunal Disadvantages

Administrative Justice Council’s call for feedback on improving digital tribunal access

The Administrative Justice Council (AJC) in the UK has issued a call for evidence, seeking to illuminate the impact of digital reforms in tribunals and to address entrenched disadvantages within the administrative justice system.

This initiative invites feedback from advisors, clients, and stakeholders, aiming to uncover the strengths and shortcomings of digital transformation in the justice sector.

Call for evidence on the digital reform of tribunals and addressing disadvantage - Courts and Tribunals Judiciary

You can respond to the Administrative Justice Council up to Monday 10 February at 5pm

Courts and Tribunals JudiciaryChris Smith

The Scope of Digital Reform: Promise and Peril

The shift toward digitisation in the tribunal system, spearheaded by HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS), marks an ambitious stride towards modernisation.

From online case management systems to video hearings, these reforms are designed to streamline processes and improve accessibility.

Yet, the AJC’s working group acknowledges that the journey is far from complete.

Key challenges persist, particularly for vulnerable users who face barriers such as limited digital literacy, lack of access to reliable technology, and systemic inequalities.

These hurdles not only compromise the user experience but also risk perpetuating disparities in access to justice.

Voices from the Frontline: Advisors and Users Speak Out

Central to the AJC’s call for evidence is the desire to amplify the voices of those directly impacted by these reforms. Legal advisors have highlighted the importance of preserving alternative channels, such as paper-based processes, for users unable to navigate digital platforms.

Meanwhile, appellants frequently cite issues such as unclear communication, delays in uploading evidence, and challenges with remote hearings.

Fieldwork conducted by the AJC’s working group amplifies these concerns. Judges and tribunal staff report increased administrative burdens stemming from dual systems in place during the transition to full digitisation.

For appellants, the shift to video hearings has been a mixed bag—while some appreciate the convenience, others struggle with technological hurdles and the loss of personal interaction.

Success Stories and Lessons Learned

Despite these challenges, there are pockets of success. The Social Security and Child Support Tribunal, for instance, boasts a 90% uptake rate for its “Submit Your Appeal” online system, significantly reducing the reliance on physical documentation.

Digital bundles for case files have improved data security and streamlined judicial preparation. However, these successes highlight the uneven implementation of reforms across the system.

The AJC is also keen to spotlight examples of best practices. Collaborative efforts with organisations like Advicenow have produced invaluable guidance for appellants navigating remote hearings.

Similarly, partnerships with local authorities have enhanced digital support services, bridging the gap for digitally excluded individuals.

Send comments by 17.00 on 10 February 2025.

Addressing disadvantaged people in the administrative justice system - Courts and Tribunals Judiciary

This working group was borne out of feedback from our Advice Sector Panel who reported an increasing number of frustrated and distressed users accessing the administrative justice system. Concerns were also raised about the negative effect such an increase was having on the wellbeing of those working within the system. The group is chaired by […]

Courts and Tribunals Judiciary