Court Services Queensland and the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) are creating a solution that will enable the legal profession and self-represented litigants to file civil cases electronically.
The solution includes a portal enabling online lodgement and interaction between the parties and the registry replacing the civil system currently used in the Magistrates Courts and QCAT (minor civil disputes).
The solution will support fully digital civil case management functionality and will deliver many benefits, including:
- online civil case file and minor civil dispute lodgement
- a client portal to manage case details, status and history of lodgements etc.
- ability to undertake bulk lodgements online
- a diary and scheduling tool
- a public-facing search facility.
Queensland Law Society has formed a working group comprising members across the state to work with courts’ staff to ensure the solution is fit-for-purpose, including to view a demonstration of the solution and provide detailed feedback to inform any potential enhancements. Close collaboration between the working group and courts will be critical to confirm that the new portal meets the needs of the profession.
The solution will also enable self-represented parties to manage their cases electronically, 24/7, delivering a contemporary experience by providing a more accessible, easy-to-use and convenient service for Queenslanders.
The solution will support the judiciary in determining cases in an online environment and provide automation that will improve efficiencies and ease the workload burden on registry staff.
The solution is targeted to commence operation during the last quarter of 2021. Watch for regular updates about the development of the new civil solution.
One Response
Hopefully this will be the first of many steps required to modernise our dispute resolution system. There is a lot of work to be done in a system that has changed little in the last 150 years.