Crime news: Professional Court User wi-fi to be rolled out faster
All magistrates’ and Crown Court buildings to benefit from rollout 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.
Below are links to special maps showing the extent of the rollout to date and which court buildings are next in line to be equipped with the system.
How does it work?
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) already sends information to the magistrates’ courts in digital format.
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.
Providers should make enquiries at their local court for more details.
Further information
Magistrates’ court PCU wi-fi map
CJSEfficiency@cps.gsi.gov.uk – for enquiries about CJS Efficiency Programme
CJS efficiency programme – to download PCU wi-fi user guide
Criminal legal aid processing: applications and digital systems