The measures put in place to tackle the spread of COVID-19 have resulted in significant and rapid changes in the operation of the civil justice system: new guidance authorising the use of remote hearings has been published, priorities for listing have been created and practice directions authorising the extension of time limits and suspending possession hearings have been issued. Successive announcements by the senior judiciary have emphasised their commitment to continuing the work of the courts ´wherever possible”. The rapid expansion of the use of remote hearings has been central to facilitating the continued operation of the justice systems - few if any civil hearings are now being conducted face-to-face. Guidance from the senior judiciary has emphasised flexibility in the approach adopted to remote hearings.

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