Impact of the pandemic
The first case of coronavirus (Covid-19) was declared as a public health emergency in the month of December 2019. The infectious disease has resulted in the deaths of approximately 2.5 million around the world as well as having a significant impact on several job sectors which subsequently led to the worst global economic crisis since the Great Depression. Law plays a crucial role in resolving the problems that arose as a result of the pandemic. The implementation of law and regulations varies in different countries, but nevertheless, the actions taken by the government make immeasurable changes to citizens’ lives.
Legislation to aid the health crisis
As a response to the pandemic, UK has created emergency legislation, known as the Coronavirus Act 2020. They take in different areas which the virus has affected into account. The workload of healthcare professionals, local authorities, and courts are some of the areas covered in the content of the legislation. Certain regulations on social gatherings and restricting events during the high spread of the virus have helped reduce the number of people being infected and hospitalized. This in turn will decrease the stress on healthcare workers in the government department of the NHS. In order to deal with the virus, the legislation also gives power to public authorities such as police officers and immigration officers. The public authority can be collaborative with the healthcare system as they would be able to direct those who need treatment and speed up the process of screening those who are infected and advising them to quarantine to keep the public safe. If the public didn’t comply with the rules, this will be classified as a criminal offense as it obstructs the police or immigration officers’ duties.
Restrictions or human rights?
While there are rules and regulations in place to keep the citizens in check, there can be tension between the public authorities and the citizens. The primary reason for this is the need to uphold fundamental human rights and core values. The economic impact of the pandemic has affected the low-income communities the most which further entrenches the inequality in the society. Furthermore, the severe immediate impact on labour market has also been one of the greatest contributors to unemployment and underpaid workers. Even though there are support schemes in existence, the poverty level is expected to rise despite all the efforts made by the government. Consequently, ethnic minorities, young students, and disabled people are more likely to be affected by this as they are already closer to the poverty line. This indicates whether the restrictions implemented that affect the low-income communities can potentially be considered infringing on human rights. As young people are constricted to their homes or student accommodation, the interruption to their education can result in future career prospects. This not only threatens their current attainments but also can restrict them from reaching their highest potential through public or private education.
Technological dependence
Remote learning has become a new way for students to acquire knowledge. As we become more and more dependent on technology, it really poses the question of the rise of automation and machinery to be integrated into different jobs within the law sector. People-oriented firms are becoming more prevalent as the pandemic has shown us how much working remotely can affect our mental health and overall wellbeing. Previously mentioned restrictions and regulations will be common in a post-pandemic world, where social distancing will be exercised like normal. This can be challenging for law firms as they have to find new ways to attract clients as well as to conduct essential social events such as networking. On the other hand, this can be a creative opportunity for upcoming law students who want to attain a position in the firm by demonstrating their digital expertise using different hardware and software.
Slow to change
Although we see some changes happening with universities and the education system in general, in terms of, adaptation to technology and innovative virtual methods of communication, it is hard to say the same for the bar and the courts. Especially, on the litigation side of the law, the workload is increasing day by day. However, the response to processing information is notoriously slow in comparison to other areas in law. In addition, e-filing cases and pleading can automate the workload and eliminate the need for physical space to store the documents. As long as the courts have the accessibility to store and view the necessary documents, there can be a rise in digital pleadings and electronic scanning of the files. The increased popularity of video conferencing and virtual hearings can also help lawyers and people working in the field to be more flexible with their work schedules. The possibility of the public accessing legal advice can be aided with existing technological devices and software. The higher chance of the general public and citizens being able to access the court and justice system will lead to a better sense of democracy among the people and society.
Conclusion
The pandemic has taught us many things over the course of one year. The impact of this global health crisis is likely to last longer than we anticipated. Therefore, it is how we react and adapt to the situation that makes a change and creates a better environment for the future. The lasting impact of global pandemics or natural disasters is almost inevitable, but we can choose to improve the lives of individuals, by developing tools that enable the citizens to access justice effortlessly. One of the vital tools is the technology and the vast and innovative nature of the field. While there is no doubt that technology will continue to influence courtrooms and legal practices, the use of technology in the legal sector can be accelerated, in order to bridge the gap between law and the people. law and the people.