Rapid research report highlights difficulties and strengths in remote family court systems
A recent survey commissioned to investigate the remote family court system brought into place in light of the pandemic, found that the overwhelming majority of legal professionals believe the courts are working more smoothly. Some reported benefits to working remotely, for both clients and themselves.
However, there were also concerns about parents accessing the remote court ‘alone at home’ and without the necessary technology or expertise. This is of concern especially when it is considered life-altering decisions are being made into child arrangements and financial matters resulting from separation or divorce processes.
Worryingly, the survey found that professionals and parents alike expressed concern about the difficulty of creating an empathetic and supportive environment when hearings are held remotely.
Furthermore, in cases involving allegations of domestic abuse, respondents spoke of feeling ‘re-traumatised and unsafe’ when they had to listen to or see their alleged abuser from their own home.
Clearly more awareness, innovation and consideration is needed to ensure that, particularly in emotive cases, family law and justice can be served.
Law Society president David Greene stated these worries needed to be addressed, saying that in certain cases: ‘Such as care proceedings or domestic abuse cases… there is a real need to have face-to-face interaction with their solicitor, who can offer support and ensure they understand the proceedings’.