Editors call for an end to secret Single Justice Procedure hearings to rebuild trust in justice system

The Society of Editors and the Magistrates’ Association are calling for reform of the Single Justice Procedure (SJP) in order to restore public confidence in the justice system. The SJP, which is used to prosecute low-level, non-imprisonable offenses in private based on written evidence alone, has come under intense scrutiny for its lack of transparency and potential injustices. The Magistrates’ Association has concluded that the system needs a radical overhaul to protect against these issues, and the Society of Editors has backed this stance, insisting that open SJP hearings must be introduced to ensure fairness and transparency.

Politicians from both Labour and the Conservatives have also called for SJP reform in response to the Evening Standard’s investigation into the secretive court system. Shocking cases have been uncovered, such as individuals with dementia facing criminal conviction after being moved to care homes, and elderly and frail pensioners being prosecuted while battling serious health conditions. The system has faced criticism for its fast-tracked nature, leading to rushed convictions and fines by magistrates. The Magistrates’ Association has outlined a 12-point plan for reform, including better training, allowing journalists to observe hearings, written sentencing reasons, and a “public interest” check by prosecutors in cases where mitigation letters are submitted.

Despite calls for reform, Justice Minister Lord Bellamy has stated that there are currently no plans to amend the SJP system. However, the Ministry of Justice has acknowledged the Magistrates’ Association’s report and has committed to carefully considering its recommendations. The Association emphasizes that while the SJP serves as an efficient way to handle minor offenses and spare defendants from the ordeal of attending court, changes are needed to address flaws in the system and ensure adequate protections for vulnerable individuals.

The SJP process has raised concerns particularly around cases involving sick, vulnerable, and elderly individuals, with a significant number of defendants suffering from mental or physical health conditions. The lack of transparency and accountability in the system has also been highlighted, with prosecuting bodies not always seeing letters submitted by defendants that could potentially stop a case from proceeding. In light of these issues, the calls for reform are aimed at restoring public confidence in the justice system and ensuring that the SJP operates fairly and transparently.

The need for reform of the Single Justice Procedure is underscored by the Magistrates’ Association’s survey findings, which indicate that some magistrates feel pressured to issue convictions and fines due to the system’s current operations. By implementing the proposed reforms, such as allowing journalists to observe hearings and conducting public interest checks by prosecutors, the SJP could ensure that justice is served effectively and fairly for all individuals involved. The government now faces mounting pressure to address the shortcomings of the SJP system and implement changes that will strengthen its accountability and transparency.