Discussion / focus group on defendants' experiences and views on court reporting and online information about court proceedings

Dr Judith Townend, a lecturer and researcher based at the University of Sussex, is conducting a pilot research study into the way in which information about court proceedings is shared online. In particular, she is interested in:

• The role of the media in reporting court
• The role and use of social media and online search (e.g. Google)
• The role and responsibility of the Judiciary, Ministry of Justice and HM Courts and Tribunals Service in sharing information by digital means.
• The impact on defendants during the trial and afterwards

Unlock is supporting Dr Townend’s research by helping to facilitate a small focus/discussion group session on Friday 13th April, 2-4pm in central London (Russell Square/Bloomsbury area).
We are looking for participants who:

1. Live in the south-east of England, and can travel to London for the day
2. Have been involved as a defendant in court proceedings in England and Wales in the last five years (resulting in either a conviction or acquittal)*
3. Have an interest in the reporting and communication of court proceedings
4. (Optional) Have experienced some form of coverage of proceedings, e.g. the case was reported in press, a law report or online in some way

*If you would like to take part, but your experience was over 5 years ago, please notify us of your interest. However, we will prioritise those who have been through the courts process in more recent years.

This study has been granted Ethical Approval by the University of Sussex (Social Sciences & Arts C-REC).

The findings of the discussion group will be used in research and policy outputs, but the researchers will respect participants’ confidentiality and will not use any identifying information in any publications.

Reasonable travel expenses (i.e. standard class rail, bus or coach) will be reimbursed. Tea and coffee will be provided during the session.

Further information about the focus group will be sent to all participants in advance of the session (consent and information sheet; question outline).

If you would like to participate in this study, please email policy@unlock.org.uk confirming that you meet the eligibility criteria 1-4 above. Places are limited, so if you're interested in taking part, please respond as soon as possible and no later than 4pm on Thursday 5th April. Those confirmed a place will be notified on Friday 6th April.

If you intend to claim travel expenses, please indicate where you will be travelling from, and the anticipated cost.


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