Judges' Lodgings

It is an essential requirement of the Criminal Justice System that the most serious and complex cases, both criminal and civil, are heard by High Court Judges (who are our most senior trial judges) in the place where the events transpired and in the place most convenient to the parties and witnesses.

Judges' lodgings are a very important requirement for the accommodation of High Court Judges' sitting out of London for a number of reasons:

• Lodgings offer a safe and secure environment where security can be assured - this is particularly important when judges are trying terrorism and organised crime cases.
• Lodgings help to guarantee privacy. Unlike in hotels, there is no prospect of judges coming into contact with counsel, witnesses or any of the other parties in a case while proceedings are taking place.
• Lodgings preserve the confidentiality of case papers and related documents.

In those centres that always require a High Court Judge, lodgings are the most effective form of accommodation to ensure the essential business of the court is conducted. In those places where lodgings are underused we attempt to find alternatives.