We only have to look at our judicial system to see that it is steeped in age-old tradition and formality, the wigs and gowns, rituals and terminology a world away from the modern, digital age.
Of course, long-standing procedures and ceremonies have their place but major institutions must also be prepared to move with the times, particularly when there are faster, more effective and more accessible ways of ensuring the delivery of justice.
In 2015, the Lord Chief Justice Sir Declan Morgan asked Lord Justice Gillen to undertake a fundamental review of the civil and family justice systems in Northern Ireland..
By any standards this was a comprehensive exercise which involved wide-ranging consultation and the examination of legal systems around the world, including in New Zealand, Canada and the United States.
The outcome of all this is detailed in two reports which in total make no fewer than 404 recommendations.
One of the more eye catching is the proposal to move towards paperless courts. As part of this process there would be wider use of digital technology and even online dispute resolution as an alternative to court in certain cases, such as divorce.
Another idea with considerable merit is the introduction of what are termed `problem solving courts' in the family justice system, bringing together civil and criminal cases in new courts for drug and alcohol as well as domestic violence.
Given the large number of cases that involve these issues, it is important that the legal system looks at more creative ways of dealing with difficulties that arise at an early stage.
A greater emphasis would be placed on mediation with judges able to deploy measures including anger management courses, addiction programmes and counselling for financial and other matters.
Improvements in handling cases involving children would also be welcomed as would the commitment to open justice, which is essential.
Overall, these recommendations show a recognition that the world we live in is moving forward at often bewildering speed and the legal system must be prepared to reform and adapt to the changing environment.
