Cloud Video Platform (CVP) technology to be implemented across all civil and family courts

The Government has announced that Cloud Video Platform (CVP) technology will be rolled out across all civil and family courts, following its successful launch in many Crown and Magistrates courts across the UK.

The implementation of CVP forms a part of the HM Courts and Tribunal Service (HMCTS) recovery plan which encourages justice to be delivered as usual throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

CVP has already been used in over 3,600 crown court hearings and more than 7,000 overnight remand cases heard by magistrates.

The video platform can be accessed on any device which has a camera and a microphone – this might be a phone, tablet, or laptop. Participants can access the platform from their web browser, and if required, sessions can be locked to prevent any unwanted parties from joining. Training rooms can also be set up to ensure participants are comfortable using the platform before the hearing begins.

Courts Minister, Chris Philp, said “this new system will bolster our efforts to prioritise urgent cases and increase our capacity to hear them remotely – ensuring justice is delivered effectively and safely”.

Introducing CVP to all civil and family proceedings over the next three months means that all courts in England and Wales will have the technology needed to give participants a safer, secure, and more accessible service.

CVP is available at Exeter Combined Court Centre. To find out more on how to join a CVP hearing, you can read the Government’s advice here.

Gilbert Stephens Solicitors are very pleased to have access to this new technology and look forward to using CVP to best support our clients – providing them with an efficient, safe, and secure service throughout this challenging and unsettling time.

If you need advice on family law or on anything else, please call 01392 424242 or email to speak to one of our team. We can conduct telephone appointments, or appointment-only client meetings at our Exeter, Crediton, Budleigh Salterton, and Sidmouth offices. All meetings will operate under strict social distancing measures.