Probate has been highlighted as a project within the Government’s new programme of reform for the UK courts and tribunals service.
The government have reported that work has begun on “a very ambitious programme of court reform, which aims to bring new technology and modern ways of working” to the system.
Whilst acknowledging that the underpinning principles of the justice system are enduring, the government recognise that the associated processes have not kept pace. It states that it can make the route to justice easier to navigate, better at responding to the needs of the public and less confusing.
Whilst an investment of £1 billion to reform the courts and tribunals system has already been confirmed, the government are encouraging those who use the justice system to share their views on the process and engage in conversation.
They advise that suggestions or requests for further information on certain projects should be sent to the following email address: changesomethingthatmatters@hmcts.gsi.gov.uk.
The reform programme is made up of over 50 projects, including areas such as probate, and the Court of Protection.
Where probate is concerned, the government description of the project states ‘Implementing a streamlined, digital system to speed up and simplify the process for users who apply for a grant of probate in non-contentious cases.’
The introduction of online probate came to the fore last year, when reports indicated that private beta testing was being used on simple cases.
In relation to the Court of Protection, the description sets out that the governmental aim is to enable users to initiate and manage their cases online.
Further guidance on the extent of the HMCTS reform programme can be accessed here.
