There's increased support for efforts to trim court waiting times.

The Chief District Court Judge has introduced protocols to speed proceedings, including time targets based on a crime's seriousness.

Lawyer Steve Cullen says about 81 percent of cases meet targets, against a goal of 90 percent.

He says setting up some cases can be a challenge.

"You're dealing with people in the criminal sphere who often have reasons to opt for delay, whether it be the fact that they've got other cases on foot, or they've got their own personal issues that mean they don't want the matter progressed."

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