Criminal Law Articles
As one of the North West’s leading Criminal Solicitors, this section has all the useful articles we have collated which relate to criminal law. In this section you will find out about new laws, amendments to existing laws and precedents set – as well as opinion and lot’s of great advice from our award-winning crime team.
Providing a Strong Alibi
On 10th March 2001, HRH Prince Andrew is alleged to have met and been photographed with a lady who has accused the Prince of sexual misconduct. In a BBC interview, Prince Andrew ridicules the suggestion and throws up two recollections – but are they a strong alibi?
Is It Possible To Be In Contempt of Court When Not “In Court”
Jet2 have recently brought forward a case of “contempt of court” against a couple of holidaymakers who complained about their holiday – but the evidence wasn’t used in court – so how is it possible to bring “contempt of court” proceedings against them?
The Representation of the People Act 1983 – Don’t Get Caught Out At This Next General Election
The Representation of the People Act 1983 creates a number of offences concerned with political elections. Those engaged in political party management should receive detailed training in this regard to avoid falling foul of the laws entwined with a General Election. Here we look at the main examples.
Dealing With Cases Involving A Death
When it comes to dealing with cases involving a death – it can be extremely complex and the sensitive nature of the case can make it difficult to handle. Here we look at some of the intricacies and finer details to be considered with dealing with a case involving the death of a person.
Tougher Sentences For Terrorism Offences Are On The Way
From April 2020 there will tougher sentences on terrorism offences in certain instances. Here we look at what circumstances apply and what the tougher sentencing will mean.
More Extensive Use of Stop & Search – Is It A Good Thing?
in a response to tackling knife crime, the police, with the support of the Home Office, are making more use of stop & search powers but is it a good thing? Here we look at how it is being implemented – and is it being done fairly?
Public Order Offence Sentencing Guidelines
There are to be a series of new Public Order Offence Sentencing Guidelines that come in to force for adults sentenced on or after 1 January 2020. What are the changes proposed?
Drink and Drug Driving – Independent Sample Testing
In some cases, the police need to take either a blood or urine sample from a driver suspected of driving under the influence of drink or drugs. In almost all instances, the police opt for a blood sample. Part of the procedure is informing the suspect that they can if they wish request part of the sample for independent testing. So why do so few suspects take this option up?
Firearms Sentencing Guidelines Reformed
The Sentencing Council is consulting on a new guideline for some of the most commonly prosecuted firearms offences. At the moment, guidance is to be found only in case law, and this can lead to a challenging sentencing exercise.
What Is Diplomatic Immunity?
The topic of Diplomatic Immunity has been in the news this week. The UK Foreign Secretary is requesting the wife of a US diplomat be returned to the UK to face a criminal investigation into the death of a 19 year old here in the UK. She has claimed Diplomatic Immunity, and so far, the US Government has refused for the immunity to be waived. So what is Diplomatic Immunity – and how does it work?
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