IT in the Courts

Her Majesty's Courts Service (HMCS) is considering introducing Electronic Filing and Document Management (EFDM) in the Family Courts. Among other things, EFDM would enable documents to be filed electronically without the need for specialist software, would allow court documents to be sent electronically to parties and the court to store and manage case files electronically. It would replace the current paper court file with an electronic case file, allowing parties to view case activity through a web-based service, and send and receive papers electronically. However, this service may involve a user paid charge. HMCS has commissioned Ipsos MORI to conduct an online survey, endorsed by the Law Society, in January and February 2007 to look at law firms' views on EFDM. For further information see March [2007] Fam Law.