This briefing outlines our concerns about measures proposed in the Judicial Review and Courts Bill (tabled July 2021), namely: the increased use of online plea processes, the expansion of online criminal courts, and the elimination of local justice areas. We question the evidence base for the proposals, and highlight potential negative consequences to defendants and the principle of open justice if they were implemented. For example, introducing online pleas will drive a reduction in the proportion of defendants with legal representation, worsening outcomes for unrepresented defendants who will not understand the implications of indicating a plea or pleading online.