By Thabiso Gaselebelwe South Africa’s judiciary has taken another decisive step into the digital age with the official launch of the Court Online System in the North West high court on Wednesday, October,29. Judge President Ronald Hendricks, presided over the launch in Mahikeng, marking the final rollout of the electronic filing and case management platform across all divisions of the High Court. “The Court Online System is an advanced cloud-based collaboration solution that provides a platform for law firms and litigants to file documents electronically over the internet from anywhere,” said Hendricks. He described it as “an end-to-end e-filing, digital case management and evidence management system for the High Courts of South Africa. The system allows legal practitioners to file documents, manage court appearance diaries, and access evidence online, a major shift from the traditional paper-based and in-person court processes. Hendricks said the platform will “minimise the physical movement of people within court buildings, reduce queues in general office sections, and cut down on paperwork.” He added that electronic storage will speed up document filing and retrieval, prevent the misplacement of court files, and ultimately improve the efficiency and transparency of court services. “I’m honoured to launch the Court Online System on this historic day in the North West Division,” he said. “This will improve transparency and reduce unnecessary costs.” Hendricks also expressed gratitude to the Office of the Chief Justice, Deputy Chief Justice Judge Dunstan Mlambo, and the team of experts who developed and implemented the system. Acting Deputy Judge President Andre Petersen confirmed that the Court Online System has already been introduced in eight other divisions nationwide. “The decision taken by the judiciary is to have this platform in all the divisions, and the North West Division is the last to embrace it. This ensures easier access to justice for all,” he said. Petersen added that training for judges began under Judge Mlambo’s leadership last year, with continuous staff training still underway in Midrand. “There is a technical team from the Office of the Chief Justice assigned to assist. A help desk is also available for people to call the North West High Court for support with any Court Online issues,” he said. The nationwide rollout of the Court Online System marks a historic move towards modernising South Africa’s judicial system. Post navigation How township residents are being overcharged by tuckshop owners Video glitch delays Disaneng robbery case
