Defendant with Covid symptoms forced to turn up to court
Keeping the court system functioning during lockdowns and changes throughout the pandemic has been a challenge - and one sprung at short notice. Unfortunately, in many places it has put an already pressured court system under additional strain.
Earlier in the month the Law Gazette reported how a defendant had been forced to turn up to court to explain he had Covid symptoms. He could not get through to staff on the phone lines and felt he was left with no options. He made the decision to turn up in person in order to avoid a warrant for his arrest.
The case highlights the tremendous pressure the court system has been under throughout the Covid Pandemic and lockdowns. Even before the current crisis, courts were exceptionally busy and facing delays. Although this involves the criminal court, all courts, including family courts in England and Wales face delays and extensions. These only add stress and pressure to families, at what is already a difficult time.