Modern Slavery

Modern Slavery

Modern Slavery There is a defence under section 45 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 for a person who is compelled to do an act, where that compulsion is as a result of slavery or exploitation, and a reasonable person in the same position with the same characteristics...
Manslaughter and the ‘PC Harper Case’

Manslaughter and the ‘PC Harper Case’

Manslaughter and the ‘PC Harper Case’ The death of PC Harper has been in the news again recently. He died after he was dragged behind a car that was fleeing from the scene of a theft. Unusually, at the same time that the Attorney General applied for leave to refer all...
Rape Myths

Rape Myths

Rape Myths The Crown Prosecution Service recently produced new guidance for prosecutors considering rape charges. The new guidance was said to help tackle rape myths and stereotypes, several of which were referenced. How much of an issue are rape myths? According to...
Firearms – New sentencing guidelines

Firearms – New sentencing guidelines

Firearms – New sentencing guidelines Eight new guidelines have been published for Firearms offences following an earlier consultation. The guidelines will come into force on 1 January 2021. What are sentencing guidelines? These are guidelines that must be...
Custody time limits & Covid19

Custody time limits & Covid19

Custody time limits & Covid19 Whenever a person is remanded in custody in criminal proceedings, a time limit is set within which the trial must be concluded. The Covid lockdown meant that trials were temporarily suspended leading to issues with custody time...