Court system at brink of collapse, former senior judge warns

Sir Brian Leveson's final review warns the England and Wales court system is "on the brink of collapse" as Crown Court backlogs reached 79,619 cases and are projected to approach 100,000 by next November; the report recommends 130 efficiency changes.

The court system in England and Wales is reported as facing unprecedented trial backlogs, according to Sir Brian Leveson's final review. He warned ministers, the police and others that a piecemeal response will not solve the problem. The backlog at the Crown Court was reported as 79,619 cases last September and is projected to reach about 100,000 by next November. The review sets out some 130 recommendations intended to speed case progress. Key facts: - Sir Brian Leveson, a retired senior judge, said the system is "on the brink of collapse" and urged a coordinated response across government, police and courts. - The Crown Court backlog was 79,619 cases in September and is reported to be on track to reach roughly 100,000 by November next year. - The report offers about 130 efficiency measures, including more video hearings, greater use of AI for case preparation, and measures to reduce delays in moving defendants to court. - Deputy Prime Minister and Lord Chancellor David Lammy said the government will respond to the recommendations in the coming weeks. Summary: Sir Brian's review links the current backlog to earlier spending cuts, pandemic disruption and workforce pressures, and it highlights impacts on victims, witnesses and defendants. The report recommends a coordinated package of changes and the appointment of a criminal justice adviser in government. The government has said it will set out its response in the coming weeks.