CPS Outlines Role In Digitisation Of Justice System
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has explained the role it will be playing as the Criminal Justice System moves towards being completely digitised by 2016.
Writing on the government’s Technology Blog, CPS acting CIO Paul Staff claims his Department is at the forefront of driving the transition from paper based systems with roots in the 19th century.
“We recognise the importance of providing staff with the best equipment and software that we possibly can so that we can provide a quality public service,” claims Staff.
He adds that what is “best equipment” is constantly changing, but the aspiration is to develop solutions matching the quality and speed of what people expect at home.
Essentials In A Digital Justice System
In the blog post, Staff explains the key elements CPS is considering as they build a digital Justice system:
designing, introducing and using digital files that help eliminate unnecessary business process steps and administration
- this digital file becomes the basis of all casework preparation, decision-making and presentation
- digital is the normal way of working for all staff
- staff receive the right tools to work effectively and efficiently digitally
- victims, witnesses and the public can be engaged with digitally.
According to the acting CIO, these are all elements of the Digital Business Programme (DBP) strategy that aims to change how CPS works on a long-term basis.
CPS “Can’t Go It Alone”
Staff explains in his posting that CPS accept it cannot create this long-lasting change by itself and will be working in collaboration with other agencies.
Such agencies include the Common Platform Programme that aims to deliver a unified way of working for HM Courts and Tribunal Service (HMCTS), CPS and others involved in the criminal case management progress – as well as the Criminal Justice Efficiency Programme – a plan to get criminal courts working digitally.
Over the course of 2014, Staff says his team will be working towards the implementation of full digital working on all magistrates’ and Crown Courts casework.
Besides this, paper files will be eliminated from case preparation and magistrates’ court advocacy, as well as the introduction of a Streamlined Digital File across a range of volume cases.
This year will also see the introduction of digital tools such as mobile phones being used in Crown Court appeals, sentencing and Please and Case Management Hearing cases.
“We have made a great start on a transformation journey that will create a CJS that is right for the 21st century,” claims Staff.
© 24N.biz
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