Video links 'aid access to justice'

The Court of Appeal is welcoming the wider use of video-link technology in court services, saying it will improve access to justice.

Courts Minister Rick Barker launched the extension yesterday during a special video link with Auckland, Invercargill and Wellington.

As well as at these sites, the technology has been installed in courts in Christchurch and Greymouth.

The move - a result of the Judicature Amendment Act 2006 - allows associate judges to do civil work in provincial areas via video link hearings.

Justice Susan Glazebrook of the Court of Appeal said it would save time and money. "The new technology will enable cases to be heard when the parties may be unable, for reasons of cost or time, to travel from remote locations or when it is not practical for the judge to travel.

"Another benefit will be to enable prisoners to be present at the hearing of their appeals through video link, [which] would save the cost and risk of transporting prisoners."

She said it would also be used for hearings, such as leave applications, which typically did not take long, but previously required applicants to be at the Court of Appeal.

Mr Barker said that, until yesterday, video-conferencing had been used only for remote expert witnesses.