Guidance notes published to support new Practice Direction on Listing

Guidance notes have been published to support the implementation of the new Practice Direction on Listing in the Criminal Courts, which comes into effect on 1 October 2026. The Practice Direction introduces the National Listing Framework.

The National Listing Framework aims to support a more consistent and transparent approach to criminal listing while preserving judicial discretion and the flexibility needed to respond to the circumstances of individual cases. Its central principle is that the priority given to a case should reflect the impact that delay may have on those involved and on the fairness of proceedings.

The guidance notes have been developed to help the judiciary, HMCTS staff and practitioners apply the National Listing Framework in practice. Together, the documents support a shared understanding of the principles that underpin criminal listing and the roles of those involved in delivering the fair and timely administration of justice.

Overview- a new approach to criminal listing

Guidance Note 1 – Judicial Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing Guide

Guidance Note 2- Resident Judges

Guidance Note 3 – Presiding Judges

Guidance Note 4 – Listing Officers Guide

Guidance Note 5 – Practitioners

Guidance Note 6 – Case Progression Meetings

Guidance Note 7 – Court Listing Plans

Court Listing Plan – National Template

Court Listing Plan – Model Plan A – a medium centre

Court Listing Plan – Model Plan B – a small centre