Procedural Law in a Time of Pandemic: Australian Courts’ Response to COVID-19

Abstract

This chapter considers how Australian courts have responded to the coronavirus pandemic as a matter of criminal and civil procedure. Although the diverse nature of the Australian judiciary makes it impossible to provide a detailed analysis of all actions taken nationwide, the chapter nevertheless provides a general overview of the procedural protocols and case law adopted in response to COVID-19 so as to preserve the lessons learned during this period for future reformers based in Australia and beyond.

Keywords: civil procedure, criminal procedure, judges, courts, mediation, online dispute resolution, COVID-19, coronavirus

JEL Classification: K10, K30, K41