AC 1.2 Flashcards
What organizations make up the Criminal Justice System of England and Wales?
- Parliament
- Law enforcement (the police)
- The Courts
- The punishment of convicted offenders-sentencing
These organizations work together to maintain law and order and administer justice.
What is the primary responsibility of the police force?
Maintaining law and order, preventing crime, detecting and apprehending offenders
How do the police interact with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS)?
The police investigate crimes and gather evidence, which is then passed to the CPS for their decision whether to prosecute
The police also arrest individuals who do not comply with court orders such as ASBOs (Anti social behaviour orders)
What are the key roles of the CPS?
- Advise the police on investigations and evidence required in court
- Assess the suitability of evidence provided by police
- Apply tests to the evidence (full code test, evidence test, public interest test)
- Prepare the prosecution’s case for court if theres a strong chance of conviction
The CPS plays a crucial role in the legal process, ensuring that cases are prepared efficiently for trial.
What tests does the CPS apply to the evidence?
- Full code test
- Evidence test
- Public interest test
These tests help determine whether a case should proceed to court.
What is the role of the HM Prison Service?
Management and rehabilitation of offenders in custody
Responsible for operating prisons and other secure facilities (like young offender institutes) ensuring the safety and security of prisoners.
What are the primary roles of prisons?
- Protect the community
- Prevent recidivism
- Keep those waiting to be sentenced safe
What is the role of the Ministry of Justice?
Overseeing the administration of justice in the UK
This includes setting policies and procedures for the criminal justice system
How does the Ministry of justice work with other agencies?
Works closely with all agencies to ensure justice is served fairly and effectively
- works with courts, prisons and probation services
What does the HM Courts and Tribunal Service do?
Responsible for the administration of justice in court and tribunals across England and Wales
They manage the day-to-day operations of the courts.
How does the HM Courts and Tribunal Service interact with other agencies?
- Provides physical space for trials
- Schedules hearings
- Manages court staff
- Maintains court buildings
The courts work closely with the CPS, HM Prison Service for offenders serving sentences and the National Probation Service for prisoners released
What is the function of the National Probation Service?
Supervising offenders serving community sentences or released from prison on license
They help offenders reintegrate into society and reduce the risk of reoffending.
What is the role of the Sentencing Council?
Setting guidelines for judges and magistrates when sentencing offenders
These guidelines help ensure consistency and appropriateness in sentencing, considering aggrevating and mitigating factors
What do campaigns for change in the criminal justice system aim to do?
Influence policy and practice, raise awareness of issues like prison reform and rehabilitation
Organizations like Howard’s League for Penal Reform lead these efforts.
Name some campaign groups focused on criminal justice reform.
- NACRO
- Women in Prison
These groups work to improve conditions and experiences for prisoners.
