Inside HMCTS
The official HM Courts & Tribunals podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at the justice system. Hear from court staff, service users, judges, lawyers, mediators, and researchers. Learn about the challenges they face, the achievements they celebrate, and the insights they share. You'll also get a glimpse of the human side of the system, the stories behind the cases, and the values that guide decisions.
Episodes
Breaking barriers: HMCTS and Social Mobility
In this episode, Delivery Director Jane shares her journey from a working class background to senior leadership and explains the Social Mobility Strategy HMCTS has developed to ensure career opportunities in the justice system are for everyone. Social mobility ambassadors Jan and Zak then bring that strategy to life, telling us about the school visits, the conversations, and the moments that remin
Volunteer, Magistrate, Inspiration: Carol's Story
For Volunteers' Week 2026, we’re hearing from Carol - a magistrate for over 22 years and a true testament to the power of volunteering. After losing most of her sight in 2012, Carol could have stepped away. Instead, she adapted, continuing to serve her community with the same dedication as ever.For the full interview, visit our YouTube channel.Send us Fan MailFor full transcript of each episo
From Cell to Court: Inside Prisoner Escort and Custody Services
Before a defendant reaches the dock of the courtroom, there is a complex operation involving transport drivers, custody officers and multiple agencies to get them there.In this episode, Josie goes behind the scenes at Manchester Magistrates Court, spending a day with dedicated GeoAmey staff to see first hand what it takes to move thousands of people safely through the justice system every week.Sen
Welsh Language Services: here when you need us
Did you know you have the right to use Welsh in any court or tribunal in England and Wales? In this episode of Inside HMCTS, we're joined by Hywel, Caren and Mari from the Welsh Language Unit to explore the support available, from dedicated helplines and translation services to in-court interpreters and why being able to speak your first language can make all the difference during life's
On the bench: Why magistrates matter
What does it take to sit on the bench and deliver justice? Less than you might think. Nick balances his work as a driving instructor with 17 years of volunteering as a magistrate in Sheffield and he says it's one of the most rewarding things he's ever done. In this episode of Inside HMCTS, he walks us through the reality of the role, working as a team, supported by a legal adviser and ma
Divorce Step by Step: Your Essential Guide
Go behind the scenes of one of our most widely used services in this episode of Inside HMCTS, where divorce experts Kimberley and Sarah share their insider knowledge.Discover how the divorce process really works, from gathering your documents to receiving your final order and learn the common mistakes that can delay your application.Through practical advice and myth-busting, this episode reveals h
Vision to verdicts: Introducing new courts and tribunals
What goes into creating a modern courthouse?From Blackpool's new courthouse to London's state-of-the-art City of London law courts on Fleet Street, explore the major developments transforming justice facilities across England and Wales.Discover accessibility features like changing places and wheelchair-accessible cells, the regeneration of Salisbury Square, and the conversion of 7 Newgat
Justice Without Barriers: The Northampton Crown Court Story
Go behind the scenes at Northampton Crown Court in this episode of Inside HMCTS, where a high-profile murder trial faced extraordinary logistical and human challenges.Discover how a team of justice colleagues, including HMCTS teams, police, and healthcare professionals overcame a previously inaccessible building, complex medical needs, and intense media scrutiny to ensure justice was served.Throug
Inside the Courtroom: Inspiring young minds through mock trials
What if your first encounter with the justice system was inside a real courtroom, not as a spectator, but as a lawyer, magistrate or legal adviser?This episode explores the Magistrates' Mock Trial Scheme, a partnership between HMCTS and Young Citizens that brings authentic courtroom experiences to thousands of 12 – 14-year-olds across the UK. We speak with Josh Shipp, Head of Operations at HM
Justice Connected: Inside Common Platform
We take you behind the scenes of Common Platform — a single digital case management system developed to bring together the police, Crown Prosecution Service, prisons, legal professionals, and the judiciary on one shared platform.We delve into how this ambitious digital transformation is improving access to information, enhancing collaboration, and streamlining court processes. From reducing delays
Applying for Probate: Top Tips, Tools and What to Expect
Applying for probate is something many people will face at some point, but it often comes during a deeply difficult time.In this episode of Inside HMCTS, we chat with Arjan and Nigel about the process of applying for probate.Whether you're applying online or using a paper form, this episode offers clear, supportive guidance to help navigate what can be a difficult time with confidence.From av
The Final Countdown: Reflecting on the modernisation journey for courts and tribunals
Launched in 2016, the HMCTS Reform Programme reaches its formal conclusion at the end of March 2025. It underpins a quiet revolution which has moved our courts and tribunals from paper to digital, stabilised and secured systems and set us up for the 21st century.In this episode, host Aaron Wilson is joined by CEO Nick Goodwin and Operations Director Daniel Flury to reflect on the programme’s impac
Evicting the Stereotypes: The Real Bailiffs at Work (Part 2)
In the second part of our bailiff podcast, we continue to shine a light on the daily challenges our bailiffs face and the skills required to be a success. Join us as we uncover the intricacies of their day-to-day roles and gain valuable insights into what makes a great bailiff, from effective communication to resilience under pressure. Plus, don't miss the gripping conclusion of a real-life
Evicting the Stereotypes: The Real Bailiffs at Work (Part 1)
This episode takes a look at the day-to-day reality for our bailiffs.We're joined by a range of experienced bailiffs who share insights into their daily roles, challenges they face, and the reality behind the TV stereotypes.We'll also join one of our teams on the road, as county court bailiffs Wendy and Karen provide a first-hand look at their work during an eviction.Listen now to discov
From Summons to Service: Your Complete Guide to Jury Duty
Have you ever wondered how you get selected to sit on a jury and what happens once you are chosen? Listen to the latest episode of Inside HMCTS, where we take an in-depth look at jury service and the selection process. In this episode, we will be joined by Craig Robb, Deputy Director of Crime (Live Services) at HMCTS. After serving as a juror last year, Craig provides first-hand insight into the j
12 Months of Justice: The HMCTS 2024 Review
Join us for a special end-of-year review episode of Inside HMCTS, where we reflect on the justice highlights of 2024 across all jurisdictions. From new systems and campaigns to the opening of additional courtrooms and significant events, we cover the progress and transformation within HMCTS. Tune in to hear from our colleagues and special guests as we celebrate a year filled with achievements and
Global Effort: Ensuring justice for all
In this episode of Inside HMCTS, we delve into the recent OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) Global Roundtable on Access to Justice held in Ottawa, Canada. Join us as we explore the innovative approaches and practical strategies that are improving access to justice worldwide.Our special guest, Luc Altmann, Head of Insight at HMCTS, discusses his presentation on measuring
Knives Down: Inside the community fight against knife crime - Part 2
In the second part of our anti-knife crime podcast, we hear from some of the speakers who participated in the event, including Detective Superintendent Saj Hussain, from the Metropolitan Police, who shares insight into the role of the police in tackling knife crime.We have inspiring contributions from Steel Warriors, a charity group who transform confiscated knives into outdoor street gyms. You&ap
Knives Down: Inside the community fight against knife crime - Part 1
Our latest episode of Inside HMCTS delves into an impactful anti-knife crime event held at Westminster Magistrates’ Court earlier this month.In the first of this two-part episode, we speak with Ian Rawlins, a Legal Adviser from London, about the inspiration behind the event and the importance of educating young people on the dangers of knife crime.Listeners can expect to hear about the various act
Classroom to the courtroom
The latest Inside HMCTS podcast offers an insightful look into the collaboration between HMCTS and the University of Reading, providing law students with valuable real-world experiences in the criminal justice system.Join us as we meet District Judge Sam Goozee, Senior Legal Manager Rachel Newman, and Associate Professor Liz Conaghan as they delve into the joint outreach programme that allows stud
Finding Resolution: Inside the Small Claims Mediation Service
Discover how our Small Claims Mediation Service is helping to resolve disputes without the potential stress of having to go to court. In this episode, we’ll explore the benefits of mediation and hear the real-life story of David Kerry, one of our satisfied users who successfully used the service to find a resolution to his dispute with a large company. We’ll also hear from David Franks, one of our
Accessible Justice: courts and digital services for all
In our fourth episode of Inside HMCTS podcast, we focus on how we’re making our courts and tribunals more accessible for everyone and how we are supporting people to use our online services.When people need to come to one of our courts or tribunals, or use our online services, they may require need extra help. We’re committed to removing common barriers people may face to make sure they can access
Unveiling justice: Showcasing our courts at public open days
In the third episode of the Inside HMCTS podcast, we discuss the benefits to those members of the public able to join us at an open day in their local court or tribunal. Open days offer great opportunities to give local communities the chance to take a look behind the scenes of justice being delivered in their local area. They demonstrate openness and transparency around the vital public service
Neurodiversity and remote hearings
In our latest episode, we're focusing on an important and timely topic – making courts and tribunals more accessible for neurodivergent people.Neurodiversity, expresses the diverse ways people think, interpret, and process information, and it is at the forefront of our efforts to ensure justice is accessible to everyone. Our host, Liz Bryant, talks to Nicky Reynolds, Deputy Director of the Fu
Reducing the heat: what to expect from our online divorce service
In this episode, we discuss the benefits of a modernised divorce process. Since 2016, HMCTS has been transforming court services after the government invested £1.3 billion into the reform of our justice system. Hear from those working behind the scenes who help deliver a modernised online divorce process, and from those who have used the service on what to expect. Send us Fan MailFor full transcri
