The new rules of transparency

• The new Transparency and Open Justice Board Key Objectives set out a framework for widespread reform of the rules around public access to court and tribunal hearings, making it easier for non-parties to access documents filed in court proceedings and court hearings.
• The exact rule changes will be developed by individual courts and tribunals. The High Court has already announced changes to its rules around access to court documents, expected to come into force in January 2026.
• Litigants need to be aware that court proceedings are set to become much more public. Any applications to derogate from open justice principles will need to be carefully justified.

In April 2024, the Lady Chief Justice of England and Wales announced a new Transparency and Open Justice Board to spearhead reform of the court and tribunal system. In July 2025, the board released its finalised key objectives, setting out the principles of a reform agenda in respect of public access to court hearings and