Technology: achieving a humane approach to the remote ways of working in the Family Justice System

Barrister at Trinity Chambers, Newcastle

The Covid-19 global pandemic ushered in a Tsunami of disruption both socially and economically. The Judiciary, Executive and the Legislature, were left scrambling both to navigate the restrictions imposed and to identify ways to effectively manage legal proceedings to ensure the administration of justice was maintained. The courts responded by utilising technological advancements such as teleconferencing and a range of remote video platforms to enable remote court proceedings to proceed in response to the unprecedented situation.

This paper will probe the challenges of accessibility to the various virtual platforms for parents and to consider whether there has been a successful attempt by members of the judiciary and advocates to ameliorate the inequalities for parents who may not have access to relevant digital technology, and as a result may experience exclusion from the digital process.