Whilst my fraud work is in the Civil Courts, I couldn't help but note with interest that Sir Brian Leveson has proposed a significant change to the way that fraud trials might be dealt with in the Criminal Courts - he has proposed abolishing trial by jury. 

The proposal raises important questions about balancing efficiency with fairness. While judge-only trials could help address the backlog and improve case management (and utilise the judge's expertise and knowledge in a trial involving complex legal matters), they may also risk eroding a fundamental right in the justice system i.e. the right to a trial by jury. Any reforms must be carefully considered to ensure they do not compromise the principles of fairness and impartiality.

If implemented, these changes would mark a significant shift in the UK’s legal tradition, and their impact on justice and public confidence would need to be closely monitored.

However, having overheard one of my colleagues talking to one of the Civil Courts yesterday and being informed that the Court won't be able to acknowledge that the firm is going on the record as acting for one of our clients for up to 18 weeks in circumstances where the trial is in just 4 weeks then maybe some changes to the Court system cannot come soon enough!