Crime + the Law: Ineffectiveness of Courts

Question 1

not proven verdict

Answer 1

• the verdict can be confusing for juries and the public to understand, as many have reported to find it difficult to see how the meaning of the not proven verdict is different to the not guilty verdict or this verdict is linked to low conviction rates in rape and sexual assault trials, which can mean that potential perpetrators of sexual violence are not punished for their actions and victims are unable to find closure from the crimes committed against them
• for example, there’s an inconsistency in understanding of the not proven meaning and confusion over its effect or almost a quarter of trials for rape or attempted rape resulted in a not proven verdict

Question 2

the public’s lack of confidence in the court system

Answer 2

• the public believe that the court system is not working effectively as it is not providing efficient sentences to deal with the levels of crime
• for example, 58% of the population do not feel confident that courts give out the right punishments when dealing with crime

Question 3

short sentences have been unsuccessful in preventing reoffending

Answer 3

• disruptive and counterproductive short sentences often lead to homelessness, unemployment and family breakdown – increasing the likelihood that people will be drawn into a cycle of offending
• for example, offenders given short sentences were reconvicted almost twice as often in 12 months than those given community sentences