Wi-fi adds to courtroom drama

Visitors and people working at most Crown courts in England and Wales can now gain internet access via BT Openzone wi-fi hotspots.

Over the past three months, wireless internet has been installed in 67 courts - with the aim of enabling barristers and solicitors to make better use of time between cases; and for jurors, victims and witnesses to access email, legal reference material and VPN office networks. The wi-fi will also enable court reporters to file copy online.

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The hotspots are sited in most publicly accessible areas of the courts - such as the advocates' assembly room, jury assembly suite, witness waiting area, public concourse and cafeteria. However, wi-fi-enabled devices such as laptops and smart phones cannot be used in the courtroom or during jury proceedings unless the presiding judge or magistrate has granted permission.

Courts minister, Maria Eagle, said many legal professionals who use the courts need access to fast and instant online information, and said Her Majesty's Courts Service (HMCS) recognises that going to court as a victim, witness or juror can be disruptive for many people who may need to keep in touch with their business, work or family during the day. "The provision of wi-fi is an important step by HMCS to improve court facilities and the quality of service provided to court users," she said in a statement.

The deployment follows a successful pilot of wi-fi in eight courts. HMCS funded the wi-fi deployment and will receive a percentage of the revenue from BT Openzone.