New inspection on attendance of victims, witnesses and defendants at court published

Northern Ireland’s Chief Inspector of Criminal Justice  Dr Michael Maguire has emphasised the importance of good communication in securing the attendance of victims, witnesses and defendants at court in a new inspection report published today. View Press Release.  View Report.

Dr Maguire called on the PSNI to  work to improve the exchange of contact information for victims and witnesses with the PSNI and the way in which the availability of police officers and staff required to attend court could be established quickly.  The report also highlights the impact the non-attendance of key individuals at court can have in terms of increasing delay through adjournments and slowing the pace of justice which in turn increases costs within the criminal justice system.