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What's it like to stand inside the oldest magistrates' court in the country?    In this episode, Melissa visits Derby Justice Centre, joined by senior legal advisor Glyn to explore the history of the Shire Hall, built in 1665. Hear about its origins as a medieval court and public entertainment space, to its links with the Pentrich Martyrs and a hidden underground dungeon.  They also discuss the building's royal connections, its award-winning restoration, and how centuries of history sit alongside modern courtrooms still in use today. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

Scams pretending to be from HMCTS can look and sound convincing.  In this episode, we speak to Matt from our Counter Fraud team about how these scams work, the warning signs to look out for and what you should do if you're unsure. From fake phone calls and emails to fraudsters posing as enforcement officers, Matt shares practical advice to help you stay one step ahead. The key message? Stop. Think. Check. Don't feel pressured to make a payment or share your personal information. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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 remind them why this work matters. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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 Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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 most difficult moments. To listen to this episode in Welsh, please visit - Inside HMCTS, from Monday 2 March. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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 making decisions that genuinely improve lives.  He shares how his employers have supported him, the skills he's brought back to his day job, and why anyone aged 18-74 should consider applying. For more information visit: icanbeamagistrate.co.uk  Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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 how we support people through what can be a challenging time, making the journey a little smoother when it matters most. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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 Newgate Street into a world-leading 30-hearing-room tribunal centre. Plus, hear how £148 million is tackling leaking roofs and ageing heating systems from Nottingham Crown Court to Birmingham, making our buildings fit for purpose. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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. Through creative problem-solving and collaboration, the episode reveals how fairness and dignity can prevail even when the odds seem impossible. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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 HMCTS, and Akasa Pradhan, Senior Education Manager at Young Citizens to hear how mock trials are building confidence, breaking down misconceptions and helping young people see the justice system not as something distant, but as something they can be part of. We also hear from students Annabel and Benjamin from Hazelwick School in West Sussex and Adele from Bishopston Comprehensive School who took part in the recent London regional final as well as volunteers like Lord Ponsonby of Shulbrede, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State who give their time to make it happen. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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 to empowering legal teams with real-time updates, Common Platform is reshaping how justice is delivered — making it more efficient, transparent, and joined-up than ever before. Through interviews with users, this episode  uncovers the impact of the platform and what it means for the future of criminal justice.  Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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 avoiding common mistakes to understanding timelines and requirements, this practical conversation is designed to make the journey smoother for everyone involved. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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 impact, key learnings, and what comes next.  They discuss the challenges of modernising the justice system, the transition to digital services, and the sensitivities surrounding change, including managing the impacts on staff and justice partners.  This candid yet thoughtful conversation acknowledges and thanks the efforts of all involved and looks ahead to the future of continuous improvement. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS

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 eviction story featuring county court bailiffs Wendy and Karen, as they navigate the complexities of their profession with expertise and compassion. Send us Fan Mail For full transcript of each episode, please visit - Inside HMCTS