Appraising The Legality of Virtual Courts at The Outbreak of Covid -19 Pandemic

In this paper, the legality of virtual courts at the time of COVID 19 pandemic is examined in relation to the right to a fair trial. Hearings that are held in virtual or remote courts take place in locations other than the actual courtroom. Hearings are held over the phone, over videoconferencing, on closed-circuit television, and using a variety of other electronic tools. Before COVID 19 broke out, they were already in use. However, the COVID 19 pandemic epidemic forced a rise in the usage of virtual courts. This paper emphasized court rulings on the right to a fair trial as outlined in section 36 of the Nigerian Constitution of 1999, as amended, as they relate to the usage of virtual courts during the COVID 19 pandemic. Additionally, it highlighted the views of scholars on the subject. Virtual courts do have some drawbacks, such as the possibility that only the judge, the parties involved, and their attorneys can attend sessions. However, given that the world is growing digital, its use during the COVID 19 epidemic is highly commendable and ought to continue. The courts have ruled that its use was legal during the COVID 19 pandemic.