REMOTE HEARINGS (1): HOW ARE THE COURTS COPING? TWO CASES TODAY
I hope to keep a running record of how the courts are coping with remote hearings. Two cases reported today provide examples.
Telephone used in committal proceedings
In Anwer v Central Bridging Loans Ltd [2020] EWHC 765 (Ch) Mr Justice Zacaroli heard an application for committal by telephone.
The hearing of the application was conducted following imposition of self-isolation and social distancing measures by the government as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was accordingly not possible to hold the hearing in a public courtroom. Accordingly, I directed that the hearing take place by way of a recorded telephone conference in private, as this was necessary in order to secure the administration of justice: see Practice Direction 51Y.
One side by Skype, the other by phone
In Kavaarupo v Nursing And Midwifery Council [2020] EWHC 731 (Admin) Mr Justice Chamberlain heard an appeal against a Disciplinary hearing. The interesting thing here is that one side attended by Skype, the other by phone.