Digital justice system: inclusion framework and pre-action model

The Online Procedure Rule Committee (OPRC) invites feedback from the public and key stakeholders on its draft inclusion framework and pre-action model.

It marks an important milestone—not only for the committee, but for all those committed to strengthening access to justice across civil, family, and tribunal proceedings. The OPRC is committed to ensuring that a wide range of perspectives are heard, valued, and reflected in the final approach.

The draft inclusion framework sets out design principles and standards to ensure all users, especially those at risk of exclusion, can access and engage with digital justice services. Key features include user-centred design, plain language and robust data collection to measure inclusion outcomes.

The draft pre-action model outlines guidance for online legal information, advice, and dispute-resolution services. It seeks to promote early, fair, and efficient resolution of disputes outside of court and aims to unify standards across digital platforms. It includes principles for user conduct and provider responsibilities such as transparency, accessibility, data privacy, and referral protocols. It also proposes technical and data standards to support smooth transitions between services and the wider digital justice system.

The OPRC would be delighted to receive responses to the questions posed in this document by 5pm on 19 September 2025. Responses should be completed on the response form available on this webpage and sent to: OPRCConsultations@justice.gov.uk