Magistrates’ and Crown Courts to get wi-fi by October 2015.
Wi-fi rollout in magistrates’ and Crown Courts across England and Wales is being speeded up and all 302 sites will now be equipped by October 2015.
Professional Court User (PCU) wi-fi is being delivered through the Criminal Justice System Efficiency Programme and the target date was originally March 2016.
The new date puts the government in a good position for its ambition to have all criminal courts working digitally by July 2016.
Using CJSM secure email practitioners are able to access PCU wi-fi and their own IT systems. The idea is to improve collaboration across the justice system.
In the courtroom, digital working reduces the need for documentation to be provided in hard copy formats for hearings and trials. This saves money and encourages more efficient working.
Introducing PCU wi-fi faster is also especially valuable as more providers now have the option of submitting CRM14 eForms for online criminal legal aid applications. PCU wi-fi enhances the ability to complete and submit legal aid applications while in the court building.
Further information about the CJS Efficiency Programme can be obtained from CJSEfficiency@cps.gsi.gov.uk whilst wi-fi maps can be viewed at can be found at: