Court workloads have increased significantly in recent years, and forecasts show that the number of cases brought before the courts will continue to grow.
The majority of cases before the courts are in the criminal summary jurisdiction handled by the District Courts. In the year to 30 June 2009, 207,623 new criminal summary cases (that is, less serious criminal cases not requiring jury trials) came before the District Courts – an increase of 29% since 2005.
If increasing court workloads are not managed well, there can be a delay in the time it takes to decide cases. That delay, and its associated uncertainty, can significantly and adversely affect people's lives.
We have audited the effectiveness and efficiency of the Ministry of Justice (the Ministry) in its work to help District Courts and the High Court deal with their increasing workloads.
Lyn Provost
Controller and Auditor-General
15 December 2009