Complex cases appear to be clogging up our justice system, with manslaughter and murder offences making up more than 70% of all High Court trials.

Chief Justice Dame Helen Winkelmann says the system is struggling to keep pace, in her latest Annual Report.

Her report reveals a mix of delays, burnout, safety issues, and under-funding.

Former High Court Judge and Parole Board Chair Sir Ron Young told Andrew Dickens it's horrifying that manslaughter and murder trials are taking 17 days or more.

He says in the 1970s and 80s, murder trials took about three to five days. 

LISTEN ABOVE