Length of trials

Contested fraud cases frequently take longer than other criminal trials. This is because:

• the transactions involved are often complex and take place over a period of time, generating vast amounts of documentation;
• there is usually more than one defendant and therefore more than one defence counsel
• there are generally many witnesses called, often having to travel from overseas
• the timetabling depends on the availability of a suitably qualified judge experienced in complex fraud trials

Scheduling of trials

The Department of Constitutional Affairs and court administrators schedule fraud trials and provide suitable courtroom space.

Use of technology in court

We keep the courts informed of our forthcoming cases and of any special requirements, such as the need in court for any special equipment. There are occasions where a witness in another country gives evidence to a court in the UK, by appearing on a screen live via a satellite link.