What change did the 2018 reforms make to committal hearings?

• A. Introduction of jury trials at committal
• B. Removal of contested committal hearings
• C. Expansion of committal hearings
• D. No change to committal process

Answer: (B)

The change being tested is about making the pre-trial stage more efficient. In 2018, reforms moved away from the old practice of a full contested committal hearing, where the defence could cross-examine witnesses and challenge the prosecution’s case, toward a streamlined, largely uncontested process. The magistrate now decides whether there is enough evidence to commit the accused to trial based on the case materials and submitted arguments, not through a lengthy oral hearing. This speeds up case progression, reduces court time and costs, and keeps the focus on whether the evidence is sufficient to proceed. It’s not about introducing jury trials or expanding the committal stage, and it reflects a shift in how committals are handled.