Analysis of Security of Records in Fostering Administration of Judicial Justice at Nakuru and Nyahururu Law Courts

Abstract

Records play an important role in the administration of justice and the protection of human rights. It provides information and evidence about the case presented in court, thus influencing the timeliness and impartiality of decisions made by judicial officers. This research aimed to identify potential weaknesses in the current system or vulnerabilities that may compromise the integrity, confidentiality, or accessibility of court records. This included reviewing security protocols, procedures, and technology, as well as identifying threats or risks to the security of court records. This study analyzed how record security contributes to the administration of judicial justice in Nakuru and Nyahururu Courts. Specifically, the researcher aimed to investigate the security situation of court records, identify the measures taken to protect court records, and guide the security of court records, and determine the policy used to evaluate the competence of registrars, to evaluate the sufficiency of current electronic records systems in enhancing the security of court records. Research was supported by Records Continuum Model and adopted a descriptive survey research design. In addition, the target population was 72 respondents consisting of 4 deputy court registrars, 13 judges and magistrates, 15 record managers, 40 records office clients the study adopted a census sampling technique and a sample size 72 was collected from the deputy court registrar, judges and magistrates. Data was collected using interviews. The registry staff, and record officers and records office clients used questionnaires and interviews. The collected qualitative data were analyzed thematically, and the themes were presented verbatim. Quantitative data collected from respondents were analyzed using SPSS version 26, where descriptive(mean) were calculated and presented using tables and charts. Results revealed that the security of records in the law courts is good even though there are weaknesses that need to be addressed, also the policy framework was found to be effective in ensuring the security of court records. In addition, courts have tried to put in place security measures to safeguard the security of records. On the other hand, the researcher found out that the staff had average qualification for the work of records management, and they had sufficient qualifications in managing records in law courts however they indicated that they do not get chances to access training on current issues on managing court records and this affects their performance. The study recommended that judicial policy makers should evaluate and update existing security policies within the law courts to address specific challenges and requirements identified in the analysis. Theory of systems to be applied to encourage a systematic approach to improving court registries. Also, the study recommends that policies be developed and implement a comprehensive security policy as well as the review and streamline the processes and procedures followed in court registries to eliminate redundancies, reduce delays and improve efficiency. Areas of further studies, role of management in supporting management of records in public institutions. Need assessment for training of court records managers to enhance efficiency in records management. Risks facing court records and mitigations to avoid the risks. This research will help in identifying flaws in the current system and develop strategies to make the judicial system more efficient and effective that protects the rights of litigants