AC1.2- Describe the organisation of the criminal justice system in England and Wales

Question 1

Ministry of Justice

Answer 1

They oversee the work of:
- HM Courts and Tribunal service
- Probation services
- Prison systems

Question 1

Police

Answer 1

They work with courts to make sure that defendants, in custody, are brought before them. They often give evidence within court. They work closely in line with the CPS in charging and prosecuting others. They work closely with probation in the management of an offender.

Question 2

HM Courts and Tribunals

Answer 2

Contributes, by the judiciary, to law creation through judicial precedent and statutory interpretation. They liaison with police/independent security firms and prisons to ensure safe delivery of prisoners to court. They arrange video links if a prisoner is not to attend court for a hearing. Prisoners who are held in court cells pending their court hearing and return to prison.

Question 3

Crown Prosecution Service (CPS)

Answer 3

They advise the police on charging a suspect. They appear within court to conduct the advocacy of a case.

Question 4

HM Prison Service

Answer 4

Lawyers may seek visits to prison for legal consultations. It is the judge who sets a term of imprisonment, including the length, type and whether it is concurrent or consecutive. Those defendants who have been denied bail by the police or courts will be remanded to prison. They work with probation services when a prisoner is to be released.

Question 5

National Probation Service

Answer 5

Police will arrest a prisoner recalled whilst on probation and ensure they return to prison. Liaison and preparation between agencies when prisoners are released. Overseeing prisoners once released if on license or parole. Liaison with police should be there any issues and recall to prison if necessary. Overseeing all prisoners who have served a sentence of up to two years, and released on license for a minimum of 12 months.

Question 6

Sentencing Council

Answer 6

Works with the judiciary and other legal professionals to produce guidelines on sentencing.

Question 7

Campaigns for change

Answer 7

Can liaise with various agencies for support to enable change to be effective.
- Sarah’s law: worked with police on a child sex offender disclosure scheme.
- Bobby Turnbull’s campaign for a change in gun licensing laws also liaised with the police.
- The Prison Reform Trust works with prisons and other agencies to improve the penal systems.