The CJS efficiency programme has made good progress. 

For instance:

• most police forces are now transferring a substantial amount of case information for first hearings electronically, with the remaining forces coming online within six months
• all magistrates' courts are able to receive digital case files from the CPS
• CPS prosecutors are increasingly presenting cases electronically in court
• defence representatives can take laptops into prisons and custody areas with prior authority, subject to local arrangements and/or variance, which can be confirmed by the prison when booking
• Witness Care Units are working digitally and;
• Secure eMail is replacing paper as the usual method of transmitting information between the core CJS agencies.

Digital working within the defence community

Around 48% of LSC contract holders are now able to receive emails securely. 

This means that they can communicate with experts and CJS agencies using Secure eMail and receive case files if they provide consent to do so. 

The programme continues to encourage defence practitioners to consider the benefits of digital working.  For instance, for defendants, digitisation can mean that there is less likelihood of cases being delayed as information can be exchanged more quickly and accurately.

Importantly, the programme and LSC is working closely with representative bodies to resolve the issues raised by the defence community over the last few months and will update you on progress regularly via LSC Update.

For more information

Visit the programme's defence practitioner page on the Justice website