Govt Seeks Public Input on Jury Trial Reforms to Enhance Court Efficiency

Goldsmith emphasized the Government’s commitment to reducing delays in the court system, which can hinder access to timely and fair justice.

The Government is inviting public feedback on two significant proposals aimed at improving the timeliness of jury trials, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith announced today.

The first proposal seeks to raise the offence threshold that allows defendants to choose a jury trial. Currently, defendants can opt for a jury trial when charged with criminal offences carrying a maximum penalty of two years or more. Goldsmith is questioning whether this threshold is appropriately set.

The second proposal would extend the timeframe for defendants to decide whether they want their trial heard by a jury or by a judge alone. This change aims to alleviate the pressure on defendants who might feel rushed in making this critical decision.

Goldsmith emphasized the Government’s commitment to reducing delays in the court system, which can hinder access to timely and fair justice. “One of the biggest drivers of delays, especially in the District Court, is the increasing number of jury trials,” he noted. Between 2018 and 2023, active jury trial cases surged from approximately 2,000 to around 3,400, with the average case duration rising from 349 days to 498 days.

He acknowledged that some defendants choose jury trials by default, believing it easier to change their decision later, though this may not be in their best interest. “We need to consider these changes seriously,” Goldsmith stated. “If enacted, they could significantly reduce the waiting time for all parties involved, allowing them to resolve their cases sooner.”

The Government is encouraging input from the public and legal professionals as it evaluates these potential reforms, aiming to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the judicial system.